Different Styles of Rosé Wine
Ever felt lost in a sea of rosé, staring down that wall of pink and having no idea which one to choose? Well you are not alone here as picking the right rosé is more than just understanding the flavour profile, but also about unlocking the right vibe for whatever mischief you have planned!
Here are some styles that will help get you started towards finding your perfect pink match!
Classic Pale Pink Provence Style Rosé
Vibe: The Classic Provence Rosé is like an elegant friend who seems to been everywhere and always has a captivating story to tell. It’s sophisticated, subtly perfumed, and effortlessly chic.
Perfect For: Relaxing afternoons when the phone is on mute and time seems to slow down
Home Turf: Provence and cooler climates in Australia, such as the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Macedon or Adelaide Hills
Food Match: This style is all about delicate notes of strawberries, rose petals, and herbs and so try it with Niçoise salad or Thai green curry
Bold and Dramatic
Vibe: This is a flamenco dancing rosé with an attitude. It’s vibrant, full-bodied, and unapologetically vivid.
Perfect For: Adventurous evenings with friends you’ve only just met
Home Turf: It comes from the warmer drier parts of Spain and warmer climates in Australia, such as McLaren Vale and the Barossa
Food Match: This wine has a super robust nature and so pairs really well with hearty dishes – think paella, chorizo, or even a rich, smoky barbecue.
Savoury, Complex Grown-Up Rosé
Vibe: This is your classic contemplative, sophisticated sibling in the rosé family. It’s complex, layered, and exudes a certain grown-up charm that makes you want to come back for more
Perfect For: When it’s only 3pm and you can’t be bothered working any more!
Home Turf: Tuscany and anywhere else where the winemaker is up for a bit of experimentation
Food Match: Because of its savoury notes and texture, this style suits dishes such as mushroom risotto or grilled lamb
Sweet, Lively Rosé
Vibe: Think fireworks, festivals and lots and lots of fun
Perfect For: When you stumble up on a party down a back street and don’t look back!
Home Turf: Any place where there is sun and water. In Australia, look for Riverina, Swan Hill and Riverland
Food Match: Sweet and spicy dishes or indulgent desserts when you have kicked your shoes off and just want to live for the moment
For the Wine Geeks:
Vinification Variations: The colour of rosé depends on the time the grape skins are left in contact with the juice – a technique known as maceration. The longer the contact, the deeper the colour and texture, so… watch out!
Ageing Potential: While most rosés are best enjoyed young and fresh, some styles, particularly the more tannic and structured ones, can benefit from a few years of ageing, developing more complex and savoury notes.
And finally… did you know that the oldest recorded wine is actually a rosé dating back 7000 years ago?