The Langier Meredith 2008 Rosé of Syrah is not what you’d expect. In fact, it’s the most un-Rosé Rosé wine we’ve tried.

It might be pink and pretty but this wine remains true to its Syrah characteristics – spicy, herby, and earthy with an attitude.

Put a blindfold on and I’m not sure I’d be able to guess this assertive wine is not a red.

These characteristics are what make this a great starting Rosé for those weary of drinking something pink and pretty.

It’s the one of the most earth-forward Rosé wines you’ll ever have the pleasure of sipping with barely any hints of fruitiness.

While the bottle suggests this wine can go with anything, I disagree. Acidity and garlic strip the wine of flavor whereas a soft, creamy cheese like Brie enhances this zippy and zingy Rosé. Use this as a sipping wine and you can’t go wrong.

We’re giving this Langier Meredith 2008 Rosé of Syrah a Kick Booty seal of approval, particularly for those who fear the Big Bad Pink Bottle.

At $20 a bottle, I’d buy a couple to enjoy before summer officially ends.

A few years ago, I was in desperate need of a new suitcase after a small shopping trip in Boston.

So, I walked into the nearest luggage store and walked out with this beauty: a Burton Wheelie Flight Deck.

Little did I know, it would quickly become my favorite suitcase ever.

What do I love about this suitcase?

The Size: The suitcase is not too big and not too small, which keeps me in good packing shape (it’s battle of the bulge!) and makes it easy to maneuver (as British Comedian, Eddie Izzard would say) The company claims it’s a full size carry-on, however, speaking from experience… if you fill it up too much, it might not fit.

The Compartments: The main compartment of the suitcase is divided into two sections, upper & lower. The zippered mesh pocket keeps your stuff separated and organized. No more pulling everything out to get to the bottom! Plus, there’s a compartment you can access from the outside perfect for either shoes or a toiletry kit. Not to mention that outside padded pocket with your laptop’s name on it.

The Color: Black was last year’s pink and this year’s pink is fun design (er, something like that). My point is that there’s no mistaking my suitcase in the overhead bin or on the conveyor belt. Nobody is going walk off with my fun design by accident. Burton bags clearly stand out from the rest.

The Weight: With strict weight requirements in place throughout the industry, it’s important to have luggage that doesn’t weigh a lot before packing. The Burton Wheelie Flight Deck Luggage is light-weight with a minimal frame.

It holds everything I need for nearly every type of trip.

What more could a traveler ask for?