Wine Blogging Wednesday #9 is finally here, hosted by Sam of Becks & Posh…who has demanded that we Think Pink.

Everyone knows that I try to drink Long Island wine when possible for WBW, and this edition is no different.

In the past few weeks, several Long Island wineries have released new, Provence-style pink wines…but the one I got my hands on first comes from Wolffer Estate Vineyards in Sagaponack — 2004 Rose.

Year in and year out, Wolffer makes one of the best Roses not only on the Island but that I taste period. It’s always bone dry and exceptionally balanced with fruit, acidity and class.

The 2004 vintage is 80% Merlot, 15% Pinot Noir and 5% Chardonnay. They produced around 2,500 cases and it was bottled a month or so ago.

Eyes: Though the theme of WBW is "Think Pink" this wine is more orange with a copper hue. It looks juicy and refreshing, and is much darker in the bottle than the 2003 vintage was.

Nose: The nose is fruity with strawberries, cherries and hints of apricots and grapefruit.

Tongue: Extremely fresh and fruity with red berries and citrus, it’s crisp, but doesn’t feature as much acidity as the 2003, giving it a slightly fuller mouthfeel that is almost creamy on the finish (gotta be that Chardonnay). As with most Roman Roth creations, it’s very well balanced and delicious

Overall/Food: While the 2003 begged to be enjoyed along side fresh fish and shellfish, I think the 2004 would be equally at home along side chicken and even your Thanksgiving turkey…as well as an aperitif this summer. Serve it well chilled and enjoy how it changes as it warms.

Lenn’s Grade: A-

Keep an eye out for the next Wine Blogging Wednesday annoucement. And, if you’d like to host yourself sometime, just email me.