Rosé is one of the oldest styles of wine, and unlike white or red wine, Rose can be vinified in 3 different ways.
Before the monk Dom Perignon augmented and refined the practices of winemaking, many of the first recorded wines up to the Middle Ages were lighter, fruitier and rosy in colour, never clear nor white. There even was a time when red wines were considered inferior in quality.
Rosé resurged after the Second World War when the Portuguese released sweet Rosés to the European & the American markets. This was the catalyst for the California blush.
The roé fever hit in 2015 and market demand skyrocketed.
Nowadays, people just can’t get enough of the pink stuff, and it is sweeping nations around the world! It’s a beverage associated with sunshine, and it’s the most requested summer quaff.
France is the top producer and consumer of rosé. Spain is the second, and Italy the third.
The south of France is considered its home, and Provence is global royalty for creating the salmon coloured rosé. This sun kissed region by the sea, has charmed celebrities such as George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, they are amongst others to purchase vineyards here.
Miraval (produced by Pitt & Jolie, she was an owner until 2021), Whispering Angel and Domaines Ott (this particular producer has rosés that fetch over $300 per bottle), are regarded as some of the most elegant rosés, they are much sought after.
Astros Cote de Provence 2025
Le Tavel is a uniquely Southern Rhone’s appellation. This exceptional terroir produces rosés that can age (generally rosés are made to be drunk young). As a young wine it exudes fragrant floral aromas with tasty cherry notes. With some age it shall become fuller bodied and a little peppery. An older Tavel will be mellow with some spice.
Domaine du Vieil Avant Tavel 2024
Spain produces an array of vibrant roses that are very well priced, and most budget friendly.
Arbolencia Rose Organic
Mirada Organic Rose 2023
Italy’s most recognized dry rosés are Chiaretto (meaning pale) from Piedmont and Cerasuolo (meaning cherry red) from Abruzzo (not to be confused with the Cerasuolo di Vittoria from Sicily which is a red wine).
Azienda Agricolo Gorgo Chiaretto 2021
Fantini Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo
