A bougie-on-a-budget guide to sipping rosé beyond summer. Explore tasting notes, cheese pairings, and fun winery facts featuring By. Ott, Psagot, Belleruche, and a Kokomo cameo.
Hey friends!
I don’t know about you, but this summer’s been spicier than a Real Housewives reunion—hot, chaotic, and full of mood swings. Between the heat waves, sideways rain, and humidity so thick I started this summer with straight hair and now I’ve got curls for days, I gave in to the AC, grabbed a chilled bottle of rosé, and Boo and I set out to sip our way through the madness. (She fully supports this mission.)
Rosé often gets typecast as “just a patio wine,” but I’m not here for that slander. Sure, summer is winding down, and plenty of folks are packing up their pinks—but to that I say: no way, José. Rosé is too good to be boxed into a season. She’s lovely in the sunshine, perfect with a cozy sweater, and surprisingly bold when paired with a crackling fire and your favorite takeout. And like a well-cut blazer, the French just seem to do it best—especially when Grenache grapes are involved.
Today I’m sharing three standout rosés from this summer: By. Ott, Psagot, and a bonus pick—Belleruche. These wines are beautiful in the glass, high on flavor, and honestly? Just plain fun. Each one brings a different energy to the table, along with a cheese pairing that totally makes sense. And yes, Tom has opinions—he’s been sipping Psagot like it’s going out of style.
Let’s get into it:
👑 Kokomo Rosé – Russian River Valley, California
This one’s special. Kokomo Winery sits in California’s Russian River Valley, but the name hits a little differently for me. My very first slow dance was to Kokomo—yes, that one—and if you’re out there, Ross, you should know that awkward sway to the beat will forever live rent-free in my heart.
Even more special? My late mother-in-law actually knew winemaker Eric Miller. So now, when our family gathers, we open a bottle of Kokomo and raise a glass to memories—awkward, unforgettable, and everything in between.
Eric is an artist with his grapes, and his passion shines through in every bottle. He’s a generous, wonderful human—I had the absolute pleasure of hosting a wine dinner with him once, and let me tell you, his rosé was the standout hit of the night. A blend of Zinfandel and Grenache, it’s bright, juicy, and full of that California charm—kind of like catching up with someone who knows your whole story and still brings wine.
Pair With:
- Brie and strawberry jam
- Grilled peaches
- A nostalgic playlist and a long talk on the porch
🌸 By. Ott – Provence, France
This one’s got that effortless French cool. Pale, polished, and balanced, By. Ott brings citrus, white blossoms, and just a hint of salinity to the party. It’s subtle but not boring—think white linen on a balcony and breezy afternoons with nothing on the calendar. Bring on your French fashions—this bottle deserves a sunhat and a smirk.
Pair With:
- Fromage d’Affinois (triple cream is the move)
- Shrimp with lemon and herbs
- Pretending you’re in the South of France (bonus points for sunglasses)
🌿 Psagot Rosé – Judean Hills, Israel
Tom’s got his blush crush on Psagot—and honestly, who could blame him? This luscious libation is grown at elevation just north of Jerusalem and blends Barbera and Cabernet Sauvignon into something downright swoon-worthy. The warm days and cool nights bring out bold flavors and serious structure.
The winery itself? Built into a cave with ancient stone wine presses. We’re not saying it’s biblical, but if any wine could spark a spiritual awakening, it’s this one.
Pair With:
- Aged Manchego
- Spiced nuts
- Golden hour on the patio
🐚 Belleruche Bonus – Rhône Valley, France
Let’s hear it for M. Chapoutier’s Belleruche Rosé. You know me—if it’s Grenache-based, I’m in love. It’s crisp, refreshingly honest, and kind of like that friend who tells you when your eyeliner’s smudged, but also brings snacks. This French rosé checks all the boxes: flavor, charm, and just enough sass to keep things interesting.
And can we talk about the label? Since 1996, Chapoutier has been adding Braille to honor Maurice de La Sizeranne, a French scholar who helped make literature accessible to the blind. It’s a beautiful reminder that wine should be inclusive—because everyone deserves good taste.
Pair With:
- Goat cheese & tapenade
- Grilled veggies
- A playlist that turns into a dance party
Our days soaking up the sun may be numbered, but our love for rosé? Eternal. Whether you’re clinging to the last rays or already shopping for fall candles, there’s no need to break up with your favorite pink. These bottles are here to help you transition with style (and a chilled glass in hand).
So let’s hold onto that summer sparkle, pour another round, and toast to keeping the blush going strong—no matter what the calendar says.
Until next time—
Cheers!
