Hampton’s Rosé Shortage

Harry Dalian Rosé

Year after year, case after fleeting case, rosé wine has become scarce in the Hamptons during the summer months when the wine is most popular by demand.

Whether by those who inhabit the area year-round or just during their vacation time on the beach, rosé has become the go-to drink for men, women, young, and old as they soak up the sun and take in the salty coast.

Rosé, to those not hailing from the Hamptons, has garnered a bad reputation. But for those who do not know, the first wines ever made were rosés, and they are much closer to red than white in comparison. Rosé is made very similarly to a number of red wines but the color is created differently, hence the light blush to deep purple colors rosé can come in.

So, why is rosé so scarce in the Hamptons? Rosé is best enjoyed the same year it is created, making it hard, even discouraged, to hoard the bottles longer than 12 months. With wine connoisseur-ism on the rise, rosé is gaining respect and the demand is greater than the production, plain and simple.

However, the wineries on the island and the Hamptons are clueing in to the trend and preparing to generate more and more rosé each year. A famous and very popular rosé brand, Wolffer, has increased its production every year since 1992. Wolffer’s winemaster, Roman Roth, has stated “every year we make a little more.” However, maybe he would be advised to push for a little more than just “a little more” given the urgency of this rosé shortage and the Hamptonite’s dependency on the refreshing vino.

Autumn Spirits: 5 Wineries To Visit

Harry DalianAs the season of apple and pumpkin picking is upon us, the smell of fall is in the air, and it’s the perfect weather for wine tasting too. Head to Virginia and Maryland for some of the best wines for autumn this year. According to The Washington Post, here are 5 wineries you can’t miss:

Old Westminster Winery
The past five years, Old Westminster Winery has impressed with its hand-crafted wines. This season (starting Nov. 7th), they will be opening a new tasting room to add to the experience. Recommendations include: any of the 2014 whites, but especially, the Greenstone (a blend of sauvignon and viognier) or the albariño. Keep a lookout for co-owners and siblings Drew Baker and Ashli Baker Johnson, who manage the vineyards and tasting room, respectively.
Paradise Springs Winery
Located in the corner of the southwestern region of Fairfax County, Paradise Spring keeps gaining in popularity. October 3rd, co-founder Kirk Wiles and his winemaker partner Rob Cox are releasing their 50/50 blend of petit verdot and tannat. The grapes are homegrown from the Williams Gap VIneyard in Fauquier County. Continuing to grow his business, Wiles has been traveling out to Santa Barbara, CA, creating yet another wine.
Casanel Vineyards & Winery
Family-owned and run, Casanel Vineyards & Winery was created by Casey Nelson and her husband Nelson in 2006. Two years ago, they decided to change directions and hired two winemaker consultants: Katell Griaud and Lucie Morton. Morton is the product of famed winemaker Michel Rolland. Together with the Nelson’s daughter Katie, they have released new reds including petit verdot, cabernet, and sauvignon. New whites include: a pinot gris and a chardonnay.
Big Cork Vineyards
Situated on rolling hills in Maryland, Big Cork Vineyards is picturesque and serene. The decor is quirky with cork-themed bar stools and a motif of Big Cork’s new labels throughout. Their food from their kitchen is also delicious so plan to stay for a late lunch.
Granite Heights Winery
Being right off of U.S. Route 29, Granite Heights Winery provides easy access to its perfected red wines. The 2011 reds are certainly something to try, but the soon to be released 2012’s and 2013’s are the real showstoppers. There are other goodies to find here too including homemade jams and homegrown fruits.

White & Red Wine Chiller

Perfect for those nearly Summer, not yet Fall days. Enjoy responsibly!