It’s the first weekend in July, perhaps my favorite time of year. Here in America, we’re celebrating the Fourth of July, our country’s birthday; in the northern French town of Lille, sports fans will cheer the start of cycling’s most famous race – the Tour de France.

I’ll be watching from NYC, alert to every move by the favorites in the peloton: Tadej Pogaçar, Jonas Vingegaard, Remco Evenepoel, and Primoz Rogliç, as well as outside threats like Florian Lipowitz and Michael Storer. One thing’s for sure: it will be an edge-of-your-seat, thrill-a-minute extravaganza!

Our first three stages don’t involve much climbing; these flat stretches, however, may allow the coastal winds to influence the race, which means that the vibe in the peloton will be tense, wary, and vigilant. No one will want to lose time due to crosswinds (or bad weather) this early in the race.

Tour de France by the Glass Recommendation

Typically, I propose wines from the local region, shining a light on grape varieties and wines that reflect the traditions of a place. But the far north of France isn’t well known for its viticulture. So, because it’s Fourth of July weekend, I’m recommending a California wine from a producer that I love, love, love!

2023 Smith-Madrone Rosé (Napa Valley, Spring Mountain District)

I apologize in advance – this gem is sold out at the winery. Trust me, I’m sorry for myself, too!

A 50/50 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this rosé drinks more like a light-bodied red wine. In fact, it takes me back to my Bordeaux studies, where I first learned about the “clairet” wines made during the Middle Ages: dark pink wines made from red grapes fermented on their skins for 24 hours and intended for early drinking. Most were exported to England, which gave rise to the term “claret” as a synonym for red Bordeaux.

Tasting Notes and Pairing

Color: Bright cherry red. Looks like a young Bordeaux wine.

Nose: Fresh and vibrant notes of red fruit (currant, raspberry, cherry, rhubarb) accented by lovely floral notes of violet, and an appealing leafy-peppery green note.

Palate: An upbeat red fruit medley, as on the nose; black tea, orange rind, and a hint of green pepper. As it warms in the glass, there are more complex notes of cassis, plum, tobacco, even a hint of tomato, grilled meat, and olives. An absolute whirlwind of flavors!

Pairing: Gabe and I devoured this lovely rosé with carne asada pitas and a side of broccoli slaw with fresh pineapple and jalapeño with a tart-sweet mayonnaise dressing. A super summer pairing, if ever there was one!

Note: While the Smith-Madrone Rosé is sold out, the winery offers a beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon, which would be a great choice for your upcoming summer cookouts. And, as with all the wines from this producer, it’s one heck of a bargain!

Enjoy Stages 1-3 this weekend. I’ll be back soon with a preview of next week’s races and the perfect wines to sip while you watch!