Rainoldi Brut Rose

Rainoldi's Brut Rosé is a sparkling rosé from Massachusetts, made in the dry brut style. Brut sparkling wines usually carry very little residual sugar, so expect a crisp, clean profile rather than a sweet one. The producer's details don't state the grape blend, the production method or the vintage, so those are left out here. Rosé sparkling wines in this style usually show red-fruit character. Expect strawberry, raspberry and red cherry, often with a hint of citrus peel or watermelon rind. Body is typically light to medium, and the bubbles give a lively, refreshing texture. Tannin is generally minimal in a pink sparkler. Acidity is usually bright and carries the wine through to a dry finish that stays fresh. Oak is not normally a factor in this category, so the fruit and acidity should lead. The acidity and bubbles suit salty, fried and rich foods. Good matches include oysters, shrimp, fried calamari, a cheese and charcuterie board, or fried chicken. Soft cheeses such as brie, goat cheese and fresh mozzarella also work well. A brut rosé is also a good fit for sushi, salads with berries or citrus, and spicy dishes that a sweeter wine would overwhelm. Because it is dry, it also works well on its own as an aperitif. Serve it well chilled, at roughly 40 to 46°F, which in practice means a few hours in the refrigerator or about 30 minutes in an ice bucket. Keeping it cold helps the bubbles stay fine and the acidity stay crisp. Do not decant it, since that would let the carbonation fade. A tulip-shaped white wine glass or a flute holds the bubbles and gathers the aromas. Pour gently and fill the glass no more than two-thirds. Wines of this style are made for drinking young, so open it within a year or two of purchase rather than cellaring it. Once opened, a sparkling wine stopper will keep it lively for a day or so in the refrigerator.