Varietal: Â Cabernet Sauvignon; Merlot; Sangiovese
Region: Â Tuscany, Italy
Cost: Â $8 – $10
Winemaker’s Notes:  Color: Intense pink. Bouquet: Very aromatic. Fresh with hints of woodland berries. Taste: Fresh and dry, with rich berry flavors; well-structured, with a long crisp, clean finish. Complex, dry and medium-bodied, Centine Rosé is ideal as an aperitif, it pairs perfectly with fish, poultry and young, mild cheeses. Serve chilled at 55ËšF.
My Review: Â I’m a fan of rose’. Not so long ago I probably wouldn’t have said that because I had the same hangups about pink wines that a lot of people do, but I was fortunate and was got to try some really spectacular rose’ wines and it’s quickly become a favorite of my wife and, especially when we find the nice dry, crisp wines to counter our typically humid Virginia summers. The 2012 Banfi Centine Rose’ showed up a bit late in the season for when I’m usually drinking this type of wine, but I was intrigued because I can’t recall a time when I’ve had an Italian rose’ – I know they make them, but I’ve never had the chance to try one.
The 2012 Centine Rose’ was a nice deep pink color, and on the nose I picked up berry notes. In the mouth the wine was crisp and refreshing, with dried fruit and berry leading into a crisp finish that had just a hint of tartness, but certainly nothing that would cause anybody but the most sensitive to pucker. I paired the wine with some chicken that I seasoned a bit on the spicy side and it was a great pairing – the crisp, refreshing flavors of the wine countered the bit of heat from the chicken to create a great pairing.
For the price this is a great value buy. I’ve paid more for rose’ that was on par with the quality of this, so when looking for that budget wine, this is definitely going to be one I keep an eye out for. If you’re looking for a sweeter wine this isn’t what you want, but if you appreciate a nice dry, crisp rose’ (think more French, less White Zin), than this is definitely one worth checking out. I don’t know that it will change your mind about rose’ and pink wines, but if you’re already on the bandwagon it’s definitely one you’ll be glad you picked up for those Tuesday nights when you want something refreshing.
Editor’s Note: I received this bottle as a free sample for review.
