Rosé Wines Offer Refreshing Summer Options

Explore local and international rosé wines to elevate your warm-weather entertaining

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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As summer approaches, wine expert Randy Fuller recommends exploring a variety of rosé wines beyond the typical supermarket offerings. He highlights several standout rosés from Santa Barbara County wineries like Clos Pepe, Fiddlehead Cellars, and Fontes and Phillips, as well as other widely available options from regions like Languedoc, Provence, Bordeaux, Sonoma, Argentina, and Washington state.

Why it matters

Rosé wines have grown in popularity in recent years, offering a refreshing and versatile option for summer sipping and entertaining. By seeking out unique and high-quality rosé selections, wine drinkers can discover new favorites and support local and independent wineries.

The details

Fuller suggests avoiding the typical White Zinfandel and supermarket rosé selections, and instead seeking out more complex and nuanced pink wines. He highlights several standout options, including the Pinot Noir rosé from Clos Pepe in Lompoc, the "Pink Fiddle" rosé from Fiddlehead Cellars, the "Panky" blend from Fontes and Phillips, and the Syrah-based rosé from Shoestring Winery in Solvang. Fuller also recommends exploring international rosés like the Grenache-based offerings from Provence, Malbec rosé from Argentina, and a crisp Washington state rosé from Chateau Ste Michelle.

  • Summer 2026 is just around the corner.

The players

Randy Fuller

A wine expert and writer who provided recommendations for a variety of refreshing rosé wines to enjoy this summer.

Clos Pepe

A winery in Lompoc, California that produces a rosé of Pinot Noir that Fuller recommends.

Fiddlehead Cellars

A winery in Lompoc, California that produces a rosé of Pinot Noir called "Pink Fiddle" that Fuller highlights.

Fontes and Phillips

A winery that produces a rosé called "Panky" made from Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah that Fuller praises.

Shoestring Winery

A winery in Solvang, California that makes a rosé primarily from Syrah with some Grenache and Sangiovese.

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What they’re saying

“Don't rely on supermarkets for your summer rosés. My grocery (Ralph's) actually has a fairly decent wine section, but only a handful of pink offerings.”

— Randy Fuller, Wine Expert (nowandzin.com)

The takeaway

By exploring unique and high-quality rosé wines from local and international producers, wine drinkers can discover new summer favorites and support independent wineries while elevating their warm-weather entertaining.