08/07/2024
I have really been enjoying the limited release Pinot Noir Rosé this summer, part of the Original Series from VineCo. It's a dry wine - not too sweet - but with enough acidity to make it refreshing, and a versatile wine that pairs with a lot of summer foods. I thought I would dive into a bit about what makes a Rosé.
🍷 What is Rosé? 🌸
Rosé is a versatile wine known for its beautiful pink hue and refreshing taste. But what exactly makes rosé so special? Let's dive in!
What is Rosé?
Rosé is a type of wine that sits somewhere between red and white wine. It can range from a pale blush to a vibrant pink, depending on the grape varieties used and the winemaking process.
Main Types of Rosé:
1. Provence Rosé: Light, dry, and often the palest in colour, this French rosé is perfect for summer sipping.
2. Grenache Rosé: Typically found in Spain and the South of France, it's fruit-forward and vibrant.
3. Sangiovese Rosé: Known for its bright acidity and red fruit flavors, often found in Italy.
4. Syrah Rosé: Richer and darker, with bold flavours and a hint of spice.
5. White Zinfandel: Popular in the U.S., it's sweeter and often enjoyed as an introductory rosé.
6. Pinot Noir Rosé: Elegant and delicate, with notes of strawberries and raspberries. Often produced in California, Oregon, and Burgundy.
How is Rosé Made?
The magic behind rosé's pink colour lies in its winemaking process. Here are the main methods:
1. Maceration: Red grape skins are allowed to sit with the juice for a short period (a few hours to a few days) to impart colour and flavour. The longer the contact, the deeper the pink.
2. Saignée (Bleeding): During the early stages of red wine production, some juice is "bled off" to create a rosé. This intensifies the remaining red wine while producing a flavorful rosé.
3. Blending: A small amount of red wine is mixed with white wine to create rosé. This method is less common and often used for sparkling rosés.
Why is Rosé Pink?
The pink colour comes from the grape skins! Unlike red wine, where the skins remain in contact with the juice for the entire fermentation, rosé's skin contact is brief, just long enough to give it that signature blush.
Next time you enjoy a glass of rosé, you'll know the craft and care that goes into each sip. Cheers to discovering more about this delightful wine! 🍇✨
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Feel free to share this with your friends and spread the love for rosé! What's your favorite type of rosé? Let me know in the comments! 🌹🍷