Much like the season that inspired its name, Wolffer Estate Vineyard‘s “Summer in a Bottle” Rose has been hot since its debut last spring. The initial 1,500 or so cases were gone seemingly before summer had hit its stride. Winemaker Roman Roth made nearly four times as much in 2014 (5,700 cases) so it should be around at least a bit longer into the season, which is a very good thing.

Wolffer Estate Vineyards 2014 “Summer in a Bottle” Rose ($24) shows aromas of strawberries and mixed melons — orange and green. It’s not as brightly aromatic as its sister rose, but it’s not muted either.

A burst of strawberry and watermelon defines the rich-but-balanced palate, along with a bit of peach and rose petal. Sur lie aging gives this round and mouth-filling rose a beautiful texture and a bit of extra complexity — all balanced nicely by citrusy acidity.

Producer: Wolffer Estate Vineyard
AVA: Long Island
Blend: 50% Merlot, 19% Chardonnay, 19% Cabernet Franc and 12% Gewürztraminer
ABV: 12.5%
RS: .1%
TA: 5.0
pH: 3.40
Production: 5,700 cases
Price: $24 (sample)

2014, rose, summer in a bottle, Wolffer Estate Vineyard