A few weeks ago, we celebrated National Rosé Day which, for me, could be any/every day. Looks like many folks agree: apparently rosé is so popular, it deserves not one, but two dedicated wine holidays. Who am I to argue?

Here’s what I’m sipping on International Rosé Day:

2025 Segno Librandi Rosato comes from the Cirò DOC in Calabria, the toe of Italy’s boot.

About Cirò DOC

When the first Greeks arrived in Calabria back in 400 BC, they found hilltops strewn with vineyards and aptly called the region Enotria. A century later, the Romans arrived and turned viticulture into a large-scale effort.

The Cirò DOC is the best-known of Calabria’s wine appellations. Its claim to fame is the Gaglioppo grape, which gives rise to aromatic red and rosato wines with firm tannins and high acidity. DNA research has found that it’s a cross between Sangiovese and Mantonico Bianco, making it a sibling of Sicily’s Nerello Mascalese.

About Librandi

The Librandi winery was founded in 1950 by Antonio and Nicodemo Librandi. Seventy-five years later, the operation is managed by Nicodemo, his two sons Paolo and Raffaele, his nephew Francesco, and niece Teresa. The estate boasts 890 acres, 573 of which are planted with grapes, 247 to olive trees, and the rest to forest.

Librandi’s vineyards are located in Cirò Marina, a small town on the Ionian coast, a place naturally suited to viticulture. Perched between the sea and the Sila Mountains, vineyards benefit from elevation and exposure to sea breezes, which keep them cool during the long growing season. Winemaker Donato Lanati oversees cellar operations, bringing his expertise to each of the unique Librandi creations.

The property is certified as a Sustainable Winery under the 3E Equalitas (Environmental, Ethical, Economic) qualification.

About 2025 Segno Librandi Rosato ($17; 12.5% abv)

Cirò Rosato is made from 100% Gaglioppo, Calabria’s signature variety, selectively harvested late in September through the first few days of October. Grapes were vinified in stainless steel tanks and underwent a brief post-fermentation maceration. Librandi characterizes this wine as “vibrant, like the waves of the sea.” I just love that idea, don’t you?

Tasting Notes and Pairing

Bright copper/salmon color. On the nose there are notes of bright red cherry and raspberry, rose petals, and a hint of smoke. It’s also got citrus aromas, particularly lemon and red grapefruit. On the palate it’s pleasantly tannic and textured, which is a lovely complement to the ripe red fruit. In addition to the cherry and raspberry flavors, there’s also fresh watermelon and wild strawberry. It’s fresh and light, but with enough structure to pair well with a wide variety of dishes. Would be genius with grilled swordfish topped with cherry tomatoes and olives.

I opted to sip this wine as an apéritif with a fresh batch of avocado-tomatillo salsa and chips (I like Tostitos Hint of Lime). It’s super easy to make and is a real crowd-pleaser. Here’s how to do it:

Avocado and Tomatillo Dip

10-12 tomatillos, husked, rinsed, and cut in half
5 avocados, cut into 1″ chunks
Half of medium onion, coarsely chopped (red onion brings more color to the dish)
One jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds in or out, depending on how hot you like it!)
Salt, to taste
Ground cumin
1-2 Tbsps. of minced cilantro (optional)

Place tomatillos in a food processor and chop. Pour into large bowl.
Add the onion and jalapeño and mix in.
Add avocado and salt and stir carefully until blended in. (You want to keep the avocado chunks in tact.)
Sprinkle the top with a dusting of ground cumin and the cilantro.
Serve.

Note: The amounts can be adjusted to your personal preference. Use more or less of everything or add something new. This recipe is meant to be tinkered with!

Which rosé are you sipping today?