We didn’t have to think hard when recently asked to sample a bottle of a sweet wine from Italy. Since we do like our wine on the sweet side, our “yes, please” came quickly.
And Castello del Poggio Sweet Rosé proved to be just as we hoped, perhaps even a bit sweeter than expected.
In a Valentine’s Day promotional push, complete with recipes, the lightly fizzy drink is being pitched as an ideal choice for before or after dinner, for sharing with friends or that special someone – or even as an indulgent sip if you’re going it alone.
Here’s how the producer has described this wine: “Our Sweet Rosé is a symbol of all that is good about summertime, now versatile enough to enjoy all year round. This seductive, crisp and delicate Italian wine is delightfully refreshing, pairing best with fresh pasta, savory rice, delicious fish and a carefree disposition.”
It also notes additional “sweet details”: It’s a bright petal color with violet hues; the bouquet is fruity, with notes of cantaloupe, white peach, pomegranate and cyclamen flower; and the palate is fresh and smooth. The suggested retail price is $12.99.
Here are two recipes featuring the wine, the first suggested for girls’ night and the second for a romantic date:
Raspberry Kiss
Ingredients:
3 to 4 raspberries
2 ounces chilled Castello del Poggio Sweet Rosé
1 ounce tonic water
Directions:
Put the raspberries in the bottom of a chilled cocktail glass. Fill halfway with sweet Rosé. Top with tonic water. Garnish with more raspberries.
My Funny Valentine
Ingredients:
2 dashes simple syrup
0.4 ounces lemon juice
0.5 ounces Benham’s gin
2 ounces chilled Castello del Poggio Sweet Rosé
Directions:
Combine simple syrup, lemon juice and gin in a shaker with ice. Strain into a glass, then top with Rosé.
For more, visit castellodelpoggio.com.
– Mary Shustack
