Last week I quoted Shakespeare to blog about rosemary and Mother’s Day, and though these days I’m reading Margaret Atwood and Kristin Hannah, here I begin again by quoting a line from Romeo and Juliet.

“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet”, might be true in the garden, but when it comes to rosé wines, it’s much the opposite. From California to Chile, from Australia to Argentina, winemakers are capitalizing on our spring fling with rosé. But like red and white – depending on the region, the grape and the style – the range of sweetness, complexity and feel can vary broadly from one to the next.

Provence – where our Maple & Lather soaps are made – is also considered the birthplace of rosé wines. Provencal rosés are refreshing, medium bodied and above all, dry. Lucky for us, like our M&L soaps, these wines are available here in North America and here are five that will complement your next garden party, rooftop gathering or poolside lounge.

Caves d’Esclans Whispering Angel

You’ve probably tried this one, as it’s crazy popular these days.  But it made the top of our list for sustainability. Chateau d’Esclans uses natural and gentle sprays on their crop, while limiting water usage and using responsible cleaning products on their wine making equipment. But best of all, the light and zesty taste of grapefruit and peach is the perfect complement to a spring afternoon.

E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rosé

One of the largest producers in the region, E. Guigal is famous for both high-end reds and every day whites, reds and pinks. With hints of fruit like strawberry and cherry, I picture myself sipping this wine at a lake house with a dockside lunch of poached salmon on a crisp Caesar salad.

Miraval Rosé

I’ve never tried this one because I can never find it on the shelves. I had to include, because it’s got Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie as investors, and that made headlines when it was launched a couple of years back. Packaged in a rounded bottle, it’s said to have lovely floral notes which would pair well in a flute with oysters on a Saturday night.

Gassier Côtes de Provence Rosé Esprit

If you want to impress your girlfriends with a wine that comes with pedigree, you can tell them that this one is lauded by Wine Spectator magazine, having recently made a list of top value rosés. All of the wines on our list are in the $25 range, so this one brings both value and elegance. As for taste, it’s a perfect balance of light fruit and acidity and guaranteed to please at twilight toast.

Gérard Bertrand Côte des Roses Rosé

By virtue of the sunset-inspiring hue of rosé, virtually every bottle you’ll have on hand is likely to be pretty, but this one is my favorite. With a simple rose on its neck and a delicate floral base, I love sitting this one, chilled on my island in anticipation of an impromptu happy hour. Very light and dry to taste, it’s perfect on its own or with appetizers.

Spring is upon us and even warmer days are coming. It’s the season for sleeveless tops, outdoor runs, and pink wine. Enjoy!