2015 Les Hauts Plateaux Alpes de Haute Provence Rosé

The 2015 Les Hauts Plateaux Alpes de Haute Provence Rosé ($11) might not transport you to Provence, but who needs Provence with the kind of weather we've been enjoying? This blend of syrah, grenache (40 percent each) and cinsault (20 percent) has that French region's trademark purity and freshness, with vibrant red-berry flavors and racy minerality and acidity. It's the very definition of mouthwatering. And of delicious. From the almost overpowering floral/fruit aromas through the zingy finish, it's made for spring and summer on the patio. Try it with goat cheese (or any soft cheese); fried fish, squid, chicken or veggies; or most anything with olives, from tapenade to pizza.

Available at Tournament (Blaine), Ken & Norm's, Rite, Liquor Boy, Blue Max, Scott's, Yarmo, Toasted and others.

BILL WARD