Rose Wines For Your SummerPosted on 24th June 2024

Rosé Wine :A Journey Through France and South Africa

Rosé wine has experienced a long overdue renaissance in recent years, capturing the hearts and palates of wine enthusiasts around the world. This versatile and charming pink-hued wine has a rich history and a diverse range of styles, with each region adding its unique touch to the winemaking process. In this blog post, we embark on a journey through the vineyards of France, exploring the distinct styles of rosé produced in the Loire Valley and Provence, before concluding our adventure in the sun-kissed landscapes of South Africa.

The Grapes Behind the Blush

First of, one would wonder how you make rosé and you’d be absolutely correct :after all you don’t find rosé grapes (well, technically yes but that’s for another day), only white or red. The pigment in grapes as well as the tannins are focused in the skin, and while it’s unusual to leave the juice and skin in contact with each other for white wine production it is absolutely essential in red and rose wine production. Indeed, it’s the skin contact time that will determine how much of the colour and tannins make their way into the future wine.

So essentially with rose, the skins of pressed red grapes are only left long enough to give a pink hue to the juice.

Let's also take a moment to appreciate the grape varieties that give rosé its characteristic colour and flavour. Rosé wines are typically crafted from red grape varieties, with a brief maceration period that allows the grape skins to impart their colour to the wine. Common grape varieties used in rosé production include Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Cinsault, and Pinot Noir although any red grape variety can be used for that endeavour.

The Romance of Rosé in the Loire Valley

Nestled along the banks of the Loire River, the Loire Valley is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and diverse wine offerings. The region produces a delightful array of rosé wines, each expressing the unique terroir of its vineyards. Rosé d'Anjou, hailing from the Anjou subregion, is often characterized by its slightly sweet profile and vibrant acidity. Cabernet Franc and Grolleau are among the key grape varieties contributing to the region's charming rosés.

Try : Cabernet D'Anjou, Les Grands Cedres, Chereau Carre and Sancerre Rose, Le Colombier, Roger Neveu

Provence:The Epicenter of Elegance

Provence, often considered the spiritual home of rosé, has set the benchmark for this style of wine. With its sun-drenched vineyards and Mediterranean influence, Provence produces pale, bone-dry rosés that are both refreshing and sophisticated. Grenache, Cinsault, and Mourvèdre dominate the vineyards, creating a blend that captures the essence of Provencal terroir. Whether it's a Côtes de Provence or a Bandol rosé, the wines from this region are celebrated for their pale pink hues and notes of red berries and citrus.

Try : Cotes De Provence Rose, Domaine Saint Andrieu or Cotes De Provence Rose, BY.Ott, Domaines Ott 

South Africa:A New World Spin on Rosé

As we journey to the southern hemisphere, South Africa emerges as a vibrant player in the world of rosé wines. The Western Cape, with its diverse microclimates, offers winemakers the opportunity to experiment with a variety of grape varieties. Shiraz, Grenache, and Cinsault are commonly used to produce South African rosés, which showcase a spectrum of colors from pale salmon to deep pink. The wines often exhibit a perfect balance of fruitiness and acidity, making them suitable for a wide range of occasions.

Try : Cinsault Mourvedre Rose, 'Whole Bunch', False Bay or Mourvedre Rose, Circumstance Cape Coral, Waterkloof

Conclusion

In the world of wine, rosé stands out as a versatile and enjoyable option for enthusiasts seeking something a little different. From the historic vineyards of the Loire Valley to the sun-soaked landscapes of Provence and the dynamic terroirs of South Africa, each region brings its own flair to the art of rosé winemaking. Whether you prefer a crisp and bone-dry style or a slightly sweeter option, the world of rosé offers a delightful spectrum of flavors to explore. So, pour yourself a glass, savor the hues, and let the romance of rosé transport you to vineyards around the globe. Cheers to the pink revolution!