INSIDER'S PICK: 2016 DOMAINE MICHEL THOMAS SANCERRE ROSE $19.99

Roses from anywhere in the world are great to have in the house at this time of the year. Light and perfectly refreshing for the hot weather, but as diverse in flavor as the red grapes that get used to make them. Provence is the best known region in France for Roses, but the style is made throughout the country using the local grapes. Sancerre in the Loire is mostly known for Sauvignon Blanc, but also has splashes of Pinot Noir planted as well and is more often made as a Rose than a full on red wine. The cool climate and chalky soils bring a vibrant minerality and wet rock style freshness to the silky soft Pinot Noir texture and red fruits that give the wines incredible life. Unfortunately a stretch of difficult crops the last few years has made them a bit rare and tend to disappear faster than others.

Delicate salmon color in the glass, very Provencal looking, but more complex and subtle aromas of dried cherries and earthy herbs. The palate is where the Sancerre origins really show through, with a mouthwateringly tart acidity brightening the round watermelon and strawberry fruits, giving your entire mouth a wet rainshower of soft fruits. The perfect example of a wine being both delicate and delicious.

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