Drink of the Week: Division Winemaking Co. Ouest Rosé, 2023

In a veritable sea of rosé, I will fully admit to sometimes grabbing a bottle simply because the label catches my eye. It’s not a foolproof method, but with the Ouest Rosé from Division Winemaking Company, it pays off in both taste and aesthetics. Granted, I cheated in this case, since I already knew that Division makes great wines—but now you know it, too.

That captivating label, designed by artist Kelsey Wickwire, graces the bottles of the new line from Division founders Kate Norris and Tom Monroe, dubbed Ouest (pronounced “west”). Functioning as an urban winery in Portland, Oregon, since 2010, Division Winemaking Co. sources grapes from throughout the Pacific Northwest, aiming to reflect both the terroir and the spirit of the varied landscape.

The wine is made from organic Gamay Noir grapes sustainably farmed in the arid Columbia Valley appellation of Washington, near the volcanic Cascade Mountains. The 2023 Ouest Rosé (along with a red blend) marks the inaugural vintage for the new line, aimed at transparency and sustainability. Zippy and crisp, with notes of juicy strawberry and a pleasingly mineral-rich structure, the Ouest Rosé hits the bulls eye, pleasing to both the eyes and the palate. $17.95, klwines.com