Arnot-Roberts Rose - NYC's Wine This Spring

Back in New York's vinous Dark Ages, when only red and white were taken seriously, Rosé wine was an afterthought.

Fortunately, our island has since experienced a full-blown Rosé Renaissance, and we're now free to choose from a diverse spectrum of pink wines from many corners of the globe.

This spring, however, one particularly unusual American-made example has captured our attention: the 2012 Arnot-Roberts Rosé ($25 for 750 ml).

The wine is a majority blend of Touriga Nacional with a splash of Tinta Cão–two grapes indigenous to Portugal's Douro Valley. Both grapes play a major role in that region's dry and Port wine production, but are rarely grown in California.

The wine reveals a plush Rosé of gorgeous strawberry fruit and herbal spice, but with an elegance and aromatic subtlety that reveals the innovative spirit behind this highly acclaimed "New Wave" California winery.

Clearly, the New York City wine circuit has taken notice too: Many top shops now stock the bottle, and it's being poured at dozens of bars and restaurants across town. Keep in mind, however, that quantities are limited, so be sure to get your hands on a bottle while this Rosé is still in bloom.

Available for purchase at: Chambers Street Wines, Crush Wines, Blanc & Rouge, Discovery Wines, Flatiron Wines, Garnet Wines, Uva and Brooklyn Wine Exchange

Being poured at: Roberta's, DBGB Kitchen & Bar, Eleven Madison Park, North End Grill, Torrisi Italian Specialties, Goat Town, Aureole, Craftbar and Mas La Grillade