A Brief History of Rose’s Changing Fortunes
While rosé wines are surging in popularity today, their pedigree extends back centuries. These pink-hued wines first emerged in ancient Greece and medieval Europe. By the 17th century, they gained esteem in winegrowing regions like Provence. However, rosés fell out of favour over time, developing a reputation as cheap, low-quality quaffers. Their renaissance this past decade demonstrates renewed appreciation for rosé’s potential and versatility.
What’s Behind the Rosé Craze?
“Today’s wine drinkers view rosé as a sophisticated, food-friendly wine for all seasons,” explains Jancis Robinson, one of the world’s foremost wine critics. By pioneering production of bone-dry, delicate rosés with crisp acidity, domains in Provence inspired renewed interest in premium pink wines. Winemakers outside France have followed suit, improving rosé quality across the board.
Sommelier Carlton McCoy adds, “Drier styles with pale salmon hues suit modern sensibilities. Greater diversity – single varietal Grenache rosés, robust Italian rosatos – also appeals to budding rosé enthusiasts.”
Pairing Rosés & Seasonal Fare
Rosés offer flexibility to match lighter warm-weather cuisine but also heartier autumnal fare. “Think barbecued chicken and lemony grainsalads in summer,” says McCoy. “Then shift to mushroom risottos, bean stews, even roasted game birds come fall.”
Wine writer Elaine Chukan Brown recommends keeping rosés like Lapierre’s Raisins Gaulois, blending tangy citrus with red berry flavours, on hand year-round. Its bright acidity cuts through richer foods.
Serving Tips for Rosé
Sommeliers suggest serving rosé chilled to 8-10°C to emphasise crispness. Cellar rosés around 10°C. Contrary to myths that pink wines don’t age, many develop intriguing honeyed notes after 2-3 years. Avoid side-lying bottles, which can diminish wines over time.
Sustainable Rosés
For environmentally minded drinkers, producer Rôtie Cellars practices sustainable winegrowing. Minimising pesticides and herbicides, they let sheep graze vineyards to naturally control weeds and pests. Supporting sustainable domaines helps steward the land for future vintages.
Rosés offer immensely drinkable versatility. They deserve a stable place on tables year-round, not just in summer. Explore different premium pinks to find new favourites suiting seasonal fare and ethical priorities alike. The world of rosé holds far more than a carefree summer day – it spans the seasons with sophistication.