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Wines of the week: Le Secret de Léoube Rosé 2011; Montes Cherub 2009/2010 Rosé of Syrah; Le Froglet Rosé 2011
Terry Kirby selects the best bottles to buy
Sunday Lunch
Le Secret de Léoube Rosé 2011
The first of three rosés for (fingers crossed) warm-weather drinking, Le Secret from Provence is unashamedly upmarket, with a wonderful pale salmon-pink colour and an arty label. The blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Cabernet Sauvignon delivers an enticingly spicy, faintly herbal palate, with touches of white peach and nectarine, but crisp and bone-dry. Serve with langoustines or lobster at your most elegant outdoor lunch. £21, corneyandbarrow.com
Midweek meal
Montes Cherub 2009/2010 Rosé of Syrah
What is it about labels on rosé this year? But it is hard to resist a cartoon by the great Ralph Steadman, in this case a jolly plump cherub tribute to a founder of this Chilean label. While thankfully kept very dry, this is firmly in the New World rosé class – a deep cherry colour, full-bodied, bursting with red fruits and a nice long finish. Will match big flavours such as fish stews, ratatouille or even chicken cacciatore. £7.50, tesco.com (until 17 July, minimum order six bottles; normally £10); £9.50, slurp.co.uk (minimum order six bottles)
Bargain Basement
Le Froglet Rosé 2011
Back in the South of France, but at the cheap(er) and more cheerful end of the rosé spectrum, this time we have a, er, frog on the label of the winner of the Great Value Rosé Under £7 in this year's International Wine Challenge Awards. Fresh, juicy and well-balanced between fruit and spice, it is just the ticket for a summer evening in the garden, with some tapas or mezze-style dishes to hand. £6.49, Marks & Spencer
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