So You Think You Can Drink?

I can’t dance…at least not well. But Villa San Juliette Winery in Paso Robles, California does have a few moves. Owned by Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick, whose TV producer credits include America’s Got Talent, So You Think You Can Dance, and American Idol, and several others, started making wine. Sure, I can hear you now – “just another rich guys dream,” you mumble. Yes, they are probably wealthy, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t serious about wine, nor is their wine stupid expensive. In addition to visiting the stunning property in Creston, just outside of Paso Robles, and having had many of their wines (including their Cabernet which I wrote about for The Hollywood Reporter: see that article HERE) I know whereof I speak.

Case in point: The VSJ 2013 Reserve Rosé. I love and promote rosé and if you are put off by this kind if wine you need to boogie over to the VSJ property and try this. Made from an eclectic collection of 36% Grenache, 33% Petite Sirah, 18% Syrah, 12% Zinfandel, and 1% Viognier, there is a balance of acidity, a richness from the Syrah, culminating in a deep strawberry, pomegranate, raspberry flavors with, a slight tang; light enough to be ideal for warm summer days, and rich enough to be enjoyed anytime when the sun doesn’t shine. My frustration is that many people won’t try rosé and yes, there are many inferior versions out there: sweet, simple one trick ponies, but this VSJ will show you a different way to waltz. And it’s twenty bucks. What? Seriously, though only available in their tasting room (see pretty photo) it’s worth a visit not only for this pink baby, but to sample their collection. So you think you’re into wine? Prove it. Check out this rosé –then email me and let me know what you think.  VILLA SAN JULIETTE

ORIGIN: Paso Robles, California

PRICE: $20 - 750/ml

ALCOHOL: 14.5%

BOOZEHOUNDZ SCORE:  89 POINTS