Even though it was just released in May — 1,530 cases worth — Wolffer Estate 2013 “Summer in a Bottle” Rose ($24) is sold out at the winery. Yes, you read that correctly. More than 1,500 cases gone in about two months. You still may find it at shops or restaurants, but you can’t get it at the winery anymore. That’s pretty incredible and a problem that many wineries would love to have.

Of course it’s not really a problem for Wolffer Estate. Winemaker Roman Roth makes five different roses — three still, one sparkling and one dessert wine — so there is still Wolffer rose to be had. But, if you want to try this unique, fuller-bodied rose, make sure you get some next year.

I say unique because, while it’s largely merlot-based at 71%, it’s also 20% gewurztraminer, 8% chardonnay and 1% petit verdot. That gewurz is front and center on the nose where a floral, tropical vein runs right through aromas of peach, musk melon and sweet red berries.

It’s mouth-filling and even more gewurzt-y on the palate, too. Lychee, tropical fruit and floral flavors blend surprisingly well with ripe red berries and peach. The flavors are ripe and concentrated but also deftly balanced by citrusy acidity that leads into a long, delicate finish.

The name may be deemed corny by some, but this is a fun, delicious — and clearly popular — wine. Wolffer rose is a summer classic in these parts. Summer in a Bottle continues that tradition. And, it’s sealed with a screw cap, making it even easier to take it to the beach. If you were able to get some, that is.

2013, featured, Review, rose, summer in a bottle, wolffer estate