What's Your Rosé Style?
Here’s the deal. Rose is not a one-trick pony.
I’m not generally a huge rose lover. The most common Provence-style with all those floral and peachy notes is not always my cup of tea. But once I got out of that rosé bubble I discovered there is a whole world out there! And a rose for every palate. (I’m partial to that dark, meaty, and slightly bitter Italian style, but that’s just me.)
So anyhoo, put on your exploration hat, check out some of our favorite suggestions below, and you’ll be right on your way to finding your rose match made in heaven.
Light, fresh, crisp.
The classic rose. Citrus, stone fruit, flowers, herbaceous (think rosemary, thyme, juniper, things like that). Look for a rose from Provence (or one from Bandol if you want to get fancy!) or a Chiaretto from Italy (this region makes it their thing to copy Provence).
Something more unique (and my personal fave)? Think less fruitiness, lots of minerality, baking spice and vegetal notes. Look for a rose made from Cabernet Franc especially from Chinon in the Loire Valley.
Like that creamy strawberry fruit? Look for a rose made from Pinot Noir. You’ll find plenty from the Willamette Valley or go European and find one from Sancerre in the Loire Valley.
Deep, dark, savory.
Want something to pair with ribs or steak? Full-bodied, meaty notes and lots of structure? Try a Tavel (a rose-only appellation in Southern France) or a domestic rose made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
Red fruit (strawberry and cherry), slightly bitter finish? Look for a rose from Italy made from Nebbiolo or Sangiovese. Or better yet, see if you can find one from Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo (a rose-only appellation in central Italy).
More fruitiness and softer with some leather and spice notes? Look for a Spanish (like a Rioja or another one made from Tempranillo) or Portuguese rose.
What’s rosé style are you gonna try first?? Let us know in the comments. ⬇️
P.S. Are you a member of Sunday School Wine Society? Watch our full-blown class on all things rosé: Uncovering The Secrets of Rosé, download this guide on how rosé is made, or tell us what you’re drinking, ask for rosé recommendations or anything else rosé related in The Forum! Not a member? Find out how to become one!