Hello Wine Lovers! It’s National Rosé Day

So, I love a cold glass of rosé! As an older teen and even in my twenties, I did not get the fascination with drinking wine, but now I do appreciate a good bottle. As I do have a sweet tooth, I tend to go for a bottle of pink. The perfect opportunity to celebrate National Rosé Day.

National Rosé Day

What is National Rosé Day?

National Rosé Day is observed annually on the second Saturday in June, so this year it is taking place on 8th June 2019. National Rosé Day was submitted to and approved by the registrar of National Day Calendar in October of 2014 by Bodvár – House of Rosés – a rosé house specialising in rosé wines that hope to raise awareness and give rosé lovers a day to unite together and celebrate.

What is Rosé Wine?

Rosé is probably the oldest known type of wine, dating back as far as 600 BC. The wine is generally made from red grapes, making them very versatile to complement many types of food. Rosé is lighter than red wine and deeper than white wine. The pink colour of rosé wine depends on the time the grape skin stays in contact with the juice, also known as maceration (I learnt this word on a wine tasting course!). There are rosé wines that are semi-sparkling or sparkling, with different intensities of sweetness levels and dryness.

You do not get rosé by mixing red and white wine!

The simple mixing of red wine into white wine to impart colour is uncommon and is discouraged in most wine growing regions, especially in France, where it is forbidden by law, except for Champagne. Even in Champagne, several high-end producers do not use this method but rather the saignée method.

Saignée rosé is “not a true rosé”. The saignée method (meaning “bleeding” in French), involves making rosé as a by-product of red wine fermentation, where a portion of the pink juice from the grape must is removed at an early stage, which is fermented separately to produce rosé.

Different types of rosé wine

Rosé wine is supposed to be consumed during summer and early winter. Above all, it tastes incredible with all kinds of foods from light to full-bodied flavours. This wine actually comes in dark pink colour, orange and salmon colour and hence is referred to as blush wines.

Grenache

The French grape is perfect for producing rosé wine. It has a decent body and lovely cherry flavours. It is amazing when served cold, left in a fridge for at least an hour, and pairs well with Greek food such as stuffed vine leaves.

Moscato

A sweeter option, it is perfect for a hot and sultry summer night. It works well with desserts such as a simple bowl of fresh strawberries and cream or a piece of cheesecake. As well as pairing brilliantly with spicy food or Chinese cuisine.

Pinot Grigio

A paler rosé wine, it is a crisp wine full or apple, peak and raspberry notes. It is excellent on its own or with seafood dishes such as prawns. Equally, it works with a bowl of risotto or creamy linguine.

Pinot Noir

Most importantly, it is not an easy grape to grow as it is sensitive to weather and climate changes. When turned into wine, the result is elegant. The wine is fresh and crisp with subtle aromas of cherries and raspberries. It is enjoyed with mild-flavoured food.

Provence

The most famous rosé region in the world, as they are versatile as a perfect partner for an aperitif or dry enough that it pairs well with a range of foods. It is fresh and crisp and hints of rose petal, watermelon and strawberries.

Sangiovese

This rosé uses Italian grapes and is a pale colour. There are strong notes or roses, fresh strawberries and a hint of a bitter finish. It is a dry and fruity wine which is at its best when served cold with Moroccan style food.

Syrah

You do not find many Syrah rosé wines in Europe. It is one of the types that can be served a touch warmer, thanks to the bold flavours. With a deep colour, it has strong notes of cherry, pepper and strawberries. For instance, it is best served with chilli or pizza.

Tavel

This is a unique and historical style of rosé. It is extra dry compared to other rosé wines, with a dark pink colour. Low in acid and high in alcohol, it has an intense nose of summer fruits, but when aged the aromas can turn nutty.

Tempranillo

Spain is one of the largest producers of organic rosé wine, and the Tempranillo is the main grape used. It gives flavours of strawberry and raspberry with refreshing acidity. In other words, it is good with light tapas dishes and grilled vegetables.

Zinfandel

It is the single most popular type of rosé wine sold in the USA. (When I have visited the States they put it on the wine list under whites!) It is a vibrant pink colour and is good with spicy food which offsets the spice in the food.

I love the sweeter wines, and will automatically pick up a Moscato or Zinfandel. What’s your favourite? Let me know in the comments…


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