Rose wine, a blend of red and white grapes, has seen an uptick in popularity over the last few years. It is light-bodied and refreshing with a vibrant pink rose-like color. Originating in France centuries ago, rose is now produced around the world. Rose makes for great summer sipping as it’s light and refreshing while pairing well with various foods. There are numerous varietals available around the world today.
Crop farmer tasting rose wine
Rosé varieties
Sparkling Roses
Sparkling roses are refreshing and perfect for celebrating special occasions or having a night out with friends. Made from either red or white grape varieties, these delicate blooms tend to have light aromas of fruit with a slight sweetness at the finish. Popular sparkling rose grapes include Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay.
Still Roses
Still roses are light and dry, offering a range of flavors and aromas. Typically grown from red grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc or Grenache, still roses have an aroma that carries subtle hints of red fruits along with floral undertones.
Rose Blends
Rose blends are wines created by blending red and white grapes, either sparkling or still. Generally more complex and full-bodied than their still or sparkling counterparts, rose blend grapes include Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Grenache; popular varieties being Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Grenache.
French rosé region
Regions for French Roses
Provence
Provence is the premier region for rose wines. Provence stands out with its dry, light and fruity Roses made from Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsault and Cabernet Sauvignon blend.
Languedoc-Roussillon
Languedoc-Roussillon is renowned for its full-bodied, fruity Roses made from a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Mourvedre grapes.
Loire Valley
The Loire Valley boasts some of France’s finest white wines. It also provides visitors with light and refreshing Roses made from Cabernet Franc or Sauvignon Blanc grapes.
Other Regions
Other French regions such as the Rhone Valley, Bordeaux region and Burgundy produce excellent Roses as well.
French Rose is the ideal wine for summer sipping, thanks to its refreshing, light and fruity qualities. It comes in various varieties from sparkling to still and from regions throughout France – each providing its own distinct flavors and aromas. French Rose pairs well with many summer dishes, making it an ideal accompaniment on either a delicious meal or an enjoyable summer day out. Nowdays, climate change is impacting winemaking and rosé regions are starting to change.