Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé

Mulderbosch Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé 2013: With Valentine’s Day upon us, why not turn to a pretty rosé at a good price (retail $13), so you can have even more to spend on your loved one?

This South African wine has a lot to offer, starting with its seductive pale pink color. Mulderbosch grows grapes specifically for the wine — it’s not a saignée — so the flavor is full of strawberry and cherry and watermelon.

It’s a very fresh wine, with almost a bit of effervescence on first pour and then lots of acid so it’s ready for dinner, too (anything from roast chicken to salmon). Even better, it’s only 12.5% alcohol, so you won’t be looped and say anything stupid.

And for a bit of Santa Barbara trivia, Mulderbosch is owned by investor Charles Banks, who also has a financial hand in Sandhi, Qupé, and Mattei’s Tavern.

See mulderbosch.co.za.