Looking for a simple gift for Mother’s Day that she will appreciate and use? How about a quality bottle of rosé?

Rosé is considered the oldest known type of wine, dating as far back as 600 BC. Rosé wines are generally made from red grapes and are highly versatile wines that complement many types of foods. They are lighter than red wine and deeper than white. Their pink color depends on the amount of time the grape skin stays in contact with the juice.

Rosés are ideal for warmer evenings and casual dinners with friends. Dry rosés, which have the acidity of white wine and the fruit character of red, pair particularly well with small plate fare and tapas like prosciutto and melon, asparagus, and quiches with mushrooms. Pork sausages right off the grill are terrific with rosés, as are grilled vegetables like peppers and zucchini.

All three of these suggestions are reliable crowd pleasers and perfect for “Mommy Time-outs”:

Bieler Pere et Fils Rosé

This classic Provence rosé is a blend of 55% Syrah, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Grenache. Its aromas of wild strawberry and watermelon are followed by a bright yet broad mid-palate with a raspberry, cherry, peach, herbal, citrus and mineral core, topped by a crisp finish.

Mirabeau Provence Rosé

Mirabeau Classic is a Côtes de Provence made from beautiful hillside vineyards to the southeast of Aix-en-Provence. This is a vibrant pink, classic pale Provence rosé whose generous fruit charms the senses immediately with a heady mixture of wild strawberry, red cherry, and raspberry aromatics. It is surprisingly elegant and balanced on the palate with a delicious fresh acidity that combines with generous fruit to create a sumptuous lingering finish.

Greetings Willamette Valley Rosé

Greetings Rosé is flawlessly layered with soft berries, a lush mid-palate texture, and a refreshing, pleasing acidity in its finish. It begins with an enchanting flamingo color, leading to sweet berry aromas and a mouth of plump cherry and raspberry. A definite pink gem from the Pacific Northwest.

You can find these, and other rosés to celebrate spring, at large, local, family-owned liquor stores that offer you a superior selection experience with knowledgeable staff who take the intimidation out of wine buying.