Summer officially begins on June 21 and we’re priming our palates to enjoy it by sipping one of the hottest styles in today’s wine world: Rosé. Sadly, rosé is an often-overlooked category of wine. And that’s a shame, we think, because its cheerful pink hue and refreshing acidity is perfect for warm summer days. And to be perfectly clear on pink wine: There is a huge difference between American “blush” wines and true, dry rosé wines, and the difference is night and day. So if you’ve only tried just a glass or two (or none at all!) and think rosé is not for you, we strongly suggest you give one of these Lodi wines a swirl. 
SORELLE WINERY 2013 ‘BELLA E ROSA’ ROSATO
Composed of red fruit-concentrated Barbera and powerhouse Sangiovese, this light pink rosé wine fills the nose with aromas of cranberries, plums and fresh strawberries. The combination of intense fruit and subtle acidity make this wine particularly refreshing on a warm day. This wine shows beautifully alongside pulled pork sandwiches, Margherita pizza with sliced garden tomatoes or grilled oysters. ($16) www.sorellewinery.com
ONESTA WINES 2013 ROSÉ OF CINSAULT
The wine grapes which make up this delicate pink wine are hand-picked from what is arguably the oldest Cinsault (SAN-soh) vineyard in the world as well as the oldest vineyard in the Lodi region: the Bechthold Vineyard. This dry Cinsault rosé wine is bursting with juicy flavors of guava and strawberry and cries out to be partnered with Thai red curry or a charcuterie plate filled with cured and smoked meats, Fontina cheese and a crusty baguette. ($22) www.onestawines.com
UVAGGIO 2014 ROSATO
A testament to the source, this fuchsia-hued rosé wine is composed of impeccable Cinsault fruit from Bechthold Vineyard. Subtle expressions of black cherry and berry are complemented by floral aromatics, plus tropical and citrus notes. Crafted as a serious ‘food wine’ to be enjoyed with a meal while dining alfresco on a summer night, perfect pairings for this rosé wine include Salad Niçoise, Prosciutto-wrapped melon, and grilled shrimp. ($16) www.uvaggio.com
WHERE TO FIND THESE WINES:
Pick up all three of these Lodi wines from the Lodi Wine & Visitor Center, 2545 W. Turner Rd., Lodi, (209) 365-0621. Open daily 10am-5pm. lodiwine.com