Rosé Revolution | From Ancient Roots to Modern Sensation
Rosé has undeniably become a global sensation. Over the past two decades, it has evolved from a niche wine to one of the world's fastest-growing wine markets, captivating both casual drinkers and wine professionals alike. This pink wine's surge in popularity has led to an explosion of high-quality, age-worthy Rosés that wine enthusiasts can get excited about.
Despite its trendy status, Rosé boasts ancient roots. Tracing back to ancient Greece, it's one of the oldest yet most modern wines. Today, almost all wine-producing regions craft Rosé, with France leading the charge, particularly in Tavel, Provence, and the Loire Valley. Other notable regions include Italy's Piedmont, Spain's Rioja, and Austria's Styria.
Colour is crucial to Rosé's appeal, ranging from pale copper and pastel pink to magenta and even orange. Its taste profile is equally diverse, spanning sweet, dry, light, and creamy varieties. This diversity allows Rosé to cater to a wide range of palates and preferences.
Australian Rosés, known for their freshness and vibrancy, are primarily made from Shiraz and Grenache, with minimal skin contact giving them their signature 'blush.' Other varieties like Tempranillo, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir also produce delicious versions, showcasing the versatility of this wine style.
While perfect for warm weather, Rosé can be enjoyed year-round. It shines at summer picnics and BBQs, offering a magical complement to outdoor gatherings. The image of friends sharing a chilled bottle of Rosé on a sunny afternoon has become iconic in wine culture.
Rosé's versatility extends to food pairings. It combines the freshness of white wine with the structure of red, making it an excellent match for various dishes. From salads and antipasto platters to fish dishes and curries, Rosé handles a wide range of flavours and spices with ease. It's particularly enjoyable with soft goat cheese, creating a classic pairing that highlights the wine's subtle flavours.
Typically featuring a delicate flavour profile and a balance of sweetness and acidity, Rosé is best served young and chilled. Its refreshing nature makes it a perfect palate cleanser, ideal for sipping alone or alongside a meal. The crisp, often fruity notes of Rosé make it an approachable choice for both wine novices and connoisseurs, contributing to its widespread appeal.
Latitude 32 Wines
2023 Rosé
This “perfectly pink” Rosé predominantly made from Shiraz, fermented to full dryness, is the perfect drink anytime of the day, any day of the year, no need to wait for summer! Enjoy anytime, with anyone, doing anything, from a casual picnic to a clandestine midnight rendezvous.
TASTING Enticing aromas of red fruits and floral notes, refreshing and lively on the palate finishing with a hint of spice.
FOOD MATCH Picnics, Pizza or Pasta. Equally smashable on its own!
CELLARING Seriously I wouldn’t bother – drinking perfectly now! And who has time to wait…
PRICE $30.
Peterson House
Pink Blush Rosé
The Pink Blush Rosé is a semi sweet rose with fruity notes and a clean finish. As their most popular bottle of bubbles, this is the sparkling wine that put Peterson House on the map.
TASTING The natural acidity of the wine is balanced by a sweeter finish, whilst the red wine imparts a full mouthfeel bringing a well-rounded experience with every sip. The palate throws hints of turkish delight and fairy floss amongst the fruity notes.
FOOD MATCH Both an ideal aperitif or an accompaniment to a sweet and light dessert.
CELLARING 12-18 months.
PRICE $23.50, Also $7 piccolo, $55 Magnum.
Savannah Estate
Samantha’s Mataro Rosé
Savannah Estate Wines are produced from small select parcels of premium fruit grown in renowned viticulture regions throughout Australia. Named after Savannah’s sister, Samantha, and the first name to make it on a Savannah Estate label.
TASTING Delicate notes of freeze-dried strawberries mingle with a subtle hint of rhubarb, creating a balanced and elegant profile. With just a subtle hint of a raspberry bramble spice on the back palate. Perfectly suited for warm weather enjoyment, this Rosé will appeal to those seeking a crisp and vibrant summer drop.
FOOD MATCH Barbecued Baby Octopus with a Romesco dipping sauce.
CELLARING Drink now.
PRICE RRP $30, $25.50 Members.
Wandin Valley Estate
2022 Estate Rosé
Produced from 100% Shiraz from our Lovedale estate, this Rosé is blush pink in colour and is ready to drink this Spring. For best enjoyment, serve ice cold and enjoy with good company.
TASTING Strawberries and cream and lifted aromas of rose petal.
FOOD MATCH Best paired with Szechuan Chicken Stir Fry or a lazy long lunch.
CELLARING This wine is ready to drink now.
PRICE $30
De Iuliis Wines
Estate Rosé
The 2024 Estate Rosé was recently awarded the Trophy for Best Rosé at the Sydney Royal Wine Show. This Rosé was made with a unique blend of Merlot and Shiraz grapes grown on the family vineyards. Cool fermentation techniques help capture delicate aromas.
TASTING The aromatics of strawberries and cream and natural acidity give the wine a liveliness, which is backed by lush strawberry and raspberry fruits.
FOOD MATCH Charcuterie, salmon fillet, tuna niçoise, or pork banh mi. This rosé is the perfect addition for long lunches that seem to merge into dinner.
CELLARING This rosé is best drunk in its youth when one can appreciate its freshness and vibrancy.
PRICE $28
Talits Estate
Été (Summer) Rosé of Merlot 2022
In 2021 and 2024, Talits Estate was a finalist in the Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association’s “Cellar Door of The Year Awards.” This rosé was lovingly produced by gently pressing Talits Estate's renowned Merlot grapes just long enough to create that perfect pale pink hue we all love. The perfect wine for when the weather starts warming up. Park yourself on a poolside lounger amongst good friends and let the good times roll.
TASTING Crisp, dry and elegant. Floral on the nose.
FOOD MATCH Perfectly matched to the grazing platter at Talits Estate’s cellar door. However, if you can’t make it to Talits Estate we suggest fresh summer salads or risoni, especially with seafood, raw and lightly cooked shellfish and grilled fish and Goats Cheese.
CELLARING No need to wait. This Rosé is drinking beautifully now.
PRICE $30
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