Rosé wine is often celebrated as the ultimate summer drink, but its charm goes far beyond sunny afternoons and picnics. With its crisp, refreshing profile and wide range of styles, rosé is a wine for all occasions, all year round. Whether you’re enjoying a light lunch, a festive dinner or simply unwinding at the end of the day, there’s a rosé to suit the moment.
A Quick History of Rosé
Rosé has been around for centuries, with its roots going back to ancient winemaking methods. In the early days, wines were naturally lighter in colour, meaning they often resembled what we now call rosé. Regions like Provence in the south of France have been producing rosé for thousands of years, long before it became trendy.
How Rosé is Made
Rosé can be made in several different ways, each one creating a slightly different style and flavour.
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Direct pressing: Red grapes are gently pressed so the juice spends very little time with the skins. This creates a pale pink wine with delicate flavours.
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Short skin contact: The grape skins stay in contact with the juice for a short time (anywhere from a few hours to a day or two), giving a deeper colour and more pronounced taste.
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Saignée method: Some juice is drawn off early during red wine fermentation and turned into rosé. This often makes a richer, bolder rosé.
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Blending: A small amount of red wine is added to white wine to make rosé. This method is mostly used for sparkling rosé.
Flavour and Food Pairing
Rosé comes in all sorts of styles, from dry to sweet, with flavour notes like strawberry, raspberry, citrus and melon, sometimes with a hint of herbs or florals. That variety makes it incredibly food-friendly.
Try dry rosés with grilled seafood, summer salads, charcuterie or goat’s cheese. Richer rosés go well with roast chicken, creamy pasta or even spiced dishes. The balance of fruit and acidity helps cut through bigger flavours.
Why Rosé Works All Year Round
There’s no rule that says you can only drink rosé in summer. In fact, its freshness and vibrancy can be a real lift during the colder months. It pairs beautifully with festive food, brightens up grey evenings and adds a touch of elegance to any occasion.
Final Pour
Rosé isn’t just a seasonal fad. It’s a versatile, stylish and delicious wine that deserves a place in your glass no matter the time of year. Whether you love a pale Provence-style rosé or something with a bit more oomph, there’s a pink to please every palate.
