Vino Perfection: Rosé is not just for Summer!

Classic Drinks Head of Wine, Mark Donohoe, speaks to us about why Rosé, a diverse category of amazing wine, is not just for summer….

While rosé can often be thought of one type of beverage; overly simple, bubble gum pink and teeth chatteringly sweet (something served freezing cold on a very hot day) – the truth of this fantastic category is that it is as versatile as its red and white wine cousins! From fruit-forward, light, refreshing wines, full bodied spicy oak-aged options, to complex Champagne, rose wines are diverse enough to be suitable for all seasons, all meals, and all occasions!

The dryer styles have opened up the full range of gastronomic potential of rosé as a category. There are many dishes for which rosé is by far the best wine pairing option. Dry and light styles with high acidity (such as Tenuta Amarriglia’s Syrah/Vermentino ‘Alie’, Toscana – Italy) are amazing with Mediterranean style dishes like cod with roasted peppers, onions, tomatoes, olives and basil.

Rich, creamy styles from Provence (Chateau Gassier ‘Le pas du Moine’, Provence – France) are at their best with roasted chicken with thyme, rosemary and bay accompanied by some roasted fennel bulbs (or even roasted ratatouille with a dollop of crème fraiche for a delicious vegetarian option)!

And of course, rosé champagne (Champagne Pannier Rose, Champagne – France) is one of the most food friendly beverages in the world! From raw oysters, to roasted rack of lamb, to baked salmon in tarragon & cream sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Even the more family profile of off-dry rosé, such as options from Anjou in the Loire (Caves de l’Angerville Rose d’Anjou, Loire – France) offer a hint of sweetness that matches aperitifs like cantaloupe melon and Parma ham or offset the gentle spice found in dishes like korma or Thai yellow curry.

Whether your customers are fine diners, brunch aficionados, or social drinkers, rosé is available in a myriad of textures, flavours, and characteristics that promise to leave them spoilt for choice. Be brave and list more than one style, your customers will reward you for it!