Believed to be the oldest style of wine in the world, rosé is traditionally dry and crisp. Originally, it hailed from the Provence region of France but it is now being produced in almost every wine producing country around the world. Historically in North America, pink wines haven’t always garnered respect from wine drinkers… and they are usually shunned my men.
Rosés have often come across as too sweet and at times cloying. Moreover, the mass produced pinks were seen as too girly and gauche. But all that has changed in recent years. In fact, they have become quite trendy and can be found in most respectable restaurants and bars across the country. Why? Because rosés have come a long way… They have become more complex and are now hearkening back to their history as refreshing and dry. The once-dismissed ‘girly’ pink drink is now getting guzzled by bros around the world. So next time one of your bros makes fun of your pink wine, educate them about good rosés. And tell them they are already behind the times with their wine (and their perceptions of masculinity).
Here are a few of our favourites you can pick up at your local LCBO:
Nugan Estate Third Generation Rose
This wine is a light ruby colour with aromas of raspberry, cherry and vanilla. The palate is light and dry. This is the perfect wine to serve someone who thinks all pink wines are too sweet.
Rustenberg Petit Verdot Rosé 2015
First of all, you will notice the deep, almost salmon pink colour of this wine. It has a big, inviting, ripe raspberry nose. You would expect it to be sweet, but it is in fact, lovely and crisp in the mouth with only a little sweetness. Very easy in the mouth with good, ripe, berry flavours, yet fine, dry finish. This was scored as Silver Outstanding at the International Wine & Spirit Competition in 2015.
Featherstone Rosé 2015 – Dry
The Featherstone features hints of strawberry rhubarb-jam and a little touch of spicy red pepper jelly. It is surprisingly refreshing and complex. It pairs perfectly with picnic fare like charcuterie and antipasto.
Tawse Sketches of Niagara Rosé 2015 – Dry
This juicy, fruity wine is made in the saignée method with Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Merlot, and is surprisingly splendid with Mexican dishes like chicken fajitas.
Caves d’Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé 2015
This wine comes from the Provence region of France. It is a classic example of a good pink wine. It is delicate and shimmering, but hits you with hits of grapefruit and peachiness. It is medium body and dry. This is a classic.
Domaine des Carteresses Tavel Rosé 2015
One of the most famous rosé wines in the world, this is a beautifully well-rounded wine with fruity, red notes. Pick this one up and bring it to your next patio party – it is an easy win with your hostess.
Muga Rosé
This wine is a delectable blend of three classic Spanish grapes, Tempranillo, Garnacha and Viura. It is light and extra dry. Pairs well with summer salads and fish.
