90460 Mon Apr 14 12:20:08 -0700 2003 3 5 Texas 0 496985 I thought I would pass along a couple of really nice rose wines (NOT white zinfandel or Kool Aid types) for those of us who look for something a little different from Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio when spring turns to early summer in Texas. I picked both of them up at Central Market this past week (at 20% off, too, since they were having a case sale). The first is Domaine de la Begude 2001 Bandol, which we served with bouillabaise over the weekend. It was the perfect accompaniment to the dish, and I think that it would be great with any hearty or even spicy fish dish as well as grilled chicken, grilled cornish game hens, and provencal-style foods. Price: $12.99 a bottle. The second was a 2001 "Heritage Rose" des Caves de Papes Cotes-du-Rhone. This is a darker and more intense rose, that almost looks like a light red wine. It reminded me of a Spanish wine from the Cigales region. It is a great wine to drink on its own, and I think it would also be very good with grilled foods (not sure I would go as far as serving it with steak, but, hey, you never know unless you try it). This one was $9.99 a bottle. I should caution you, though: its alcohol content is listed at 14%, so it's best not to drink too much of it too long before your meal. Enjoy, and let us know if you find any others you like. Mon Apr 14 12:20:08 -0700 2003 0 Kirk 1 496991 My favorite rose is Chateau Grande Cassagne, Costiere de Nimes. Made from Syrah, it has the flavor intensity of a red with lighter body and tannins to go with summer fare. About $8 at Sigel's in the Dallas area or whoever carrys Robert Kacher wines elsewhere. Van Mon Apr 14 15:17:38 -0700 2003 496985 0 van 2 496992 I like that one, too. Mon Apr 14 16:16:33 -0700 2003 496991 0 Kirk 3 497008 I recommend "Carnival" by Peju Winery in Napa. Wed Apr 16 14:43:19 -0700 2003 496992 0 Bob