Saturday Cocktailing | Wölffer Rosé

Well, it's Memorial Day weekend, kids. This kicks off the unofficial summer season in beach towns and backyards everywhere. The pools are open, the grills are fired up, and the summer share folks are leaving the city in droves for greener pastures. This is one of the best times of the year to have a drink alfresco - and what could be better than a chilled bottle of rosé. While rosé had previously gotten a pretty bad rap, in the past few years it's come back in vogue. Just be sure to get a dry variety - too sweet and it tastes like melted candy. One of my favorite rosés comes from Wölffer Estate in Sagaponack, New York. They've just released their 2008 vintage, and it's about to start flying off the shelves for a few reasons - it's mighty tasty, and at $16 a pop, you won't mind if your guests throw some ice in it (hey, it's summer...relax). If you're not in the New York area, you can always order online (link below). Might want to get a bottle (or a case) sooner rather than later - these have been known to sell out pretty quick.

Wölffer Estate 2008 Rosé, $16, wolffer.com