Wine of the Week: 2016 'The Ned' Marlborough Pinot Rose

Our balmy winter aside, this is not considered rosé season by many consumers. They should think again, not only because the 2016 wines from the Southern Hemisphere are in their prime, but because they provide refreshing bursts of summer. The 2016 "The Ned" Marlborough Pinot Rosé ($15) is one of the most aromatic wines around, with fresh red berries and melon notes wafting mightily out of the glass. On the palate, it's rich and pure with a crisp but fleshy texture and a plush, vibrant finish. Yum. A fabulous happy hour sipper, this New Zealand gem — which comes from pinot noir and pinot gris grapes — is ideal for Vietnamese, Thai, Szechuan or Tex-Mex appetizers or dishes.

Available at Edina Municipal, Falls Liquors and the Wine Thief.