Think pink: Dry rosés for Northwest summertime

Spindrift Cellars 2013 Rosé, Willamette Valley, $16

If not for Oregon law, this Polk County winery would be allowed to label this as as Pinot Noir rosé, but regulations forced Matt Compton to drop the reference to the variety out because the blend uses 22% Pinot Gris — which makes the Pinot Noir component less than the 90 percent required. Regardless, it’s a tasty, refreshing and affordable pink from Esterling, Looney, SweetEarth and Croft Miracle vineyards — the latter serving as the source of the Pinot Gris. Aromas of cherry, watermelon, peach, rose petal and apricot fuzz lead to a rich entry of Rainier cherry, backed by dried cranberry and white strawberry. A pinch of Herbes de Provence adds complexity to the dry finish.

Rating: Excellent

Production: 476 cases

Alcohol: 13.5%

Winery website