You Should Be Drinking This

To quote the great Groucho Marx, "I shall drink no wine before it's time. OK, it's time!" In summer it is always time, especially for a glass of rose. But choosing can be confusing. Some are dry, some are sweet, and some defy categorization. Quite a few are downright bad. But here are three standouts we'd like to bring to your attention.

Maison Marcel

A light, refreshing rose from Provence made from a blend of grenache, merlot, and black muscat. Muscat is more commonly associaed with dessert wines, but is kept in check here by the bright peppery notes of the grenache. The combintion is perfect for a light summer meal - salad, grilled fish, fruit - or just sipping as an aperetif. $17. drinkmarcel.com

Moet Grand Vintage Rose 2008

If it must be bubbles (as it so often must), then this gorgeously complex champagne is a perfect union of spice and fruit that is full-bodied enough to hold up to a burger. With a mix weighted to Pinot Noir grapes (with the rest adjudicated between Chardonnay and Meunier) this is a keeper if you have the willpower. Otherwise, drink now and enjoy. $90, moet.com

Saved Magic Maker Rose

If you love tattoos you may be familiar with Scott Campbell, who has inked everyone from Courtney Love to Marc Jacobs. Now he's getting them midly intoxicated, too, thanks to his Saved "Magic Maker" Rose, a California wine that's bone dry wine and playful on the tongue thanks to the blend that includes Grenache, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Sangiovese. $15.99 savedwines.com