The many shades of pink
As a wine drinker you might know, and even have strong opinions on, the differences between the various reds and whites available today. And, as a wine drinker, you are no doubt adding different rosés to your list of favourite wines, with ever increasing frequency. That’s because wine lovers are discovering that rosés wines feature as much diversity of colour, aroma and flavour as their white and red counterparts. Ready to get to know “pink” a little bit better?
Light, fruity and dry
The classic rosés of the Provence region of Southern France are made primarily from the Grenache grape, while the stylish rosados from Rioja in Spain are typically made from Tempranillo. These wines are light in body and colour, but still full of floral and fruit character.
Fun, fresh and lightly sweet
Staying with the fresh theme, check out White Zinfandel. This style of wine, popularized in the 1970s by California’s Sutter Home Winery, is synonymous with the slightly sweet style of rosé. The Moscato grape also produces ripe and relaxed blush rosé.
Fun, fruity and a little bit spicy
The normally rich and robust Syrah (aka Shiraz) dons a slightly more feminine pink dress when it takes the rosé route.
Lovingly Local
Rosés love Nova Scotia’s cooler climate with its winemakers producing dry, off-dry and sparkling versions all offering bright, ripe fruit flavours and food-friendly drinkability that are perfect on their own or matched with our local cuisine.
Rosé with a serious side
If you want a truly serious rosé, look to producers utilizing Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir in the mix. These wines combine the fruit character of the grapes with a rich depth of flavour to the finish.
And remember, a gracious host takes care of the needs of all their guests. So if you have guests who will not be drinking, have a suitable nonalcoholic alternative on hand. Keeping with the pink theme, why not pick up a good quality bottle of sparkling pink grapefruit juice or make—from scratch, if you can—a batch of pink lemonade.