The Wine Blokes

Have you ever woken up with Rose coloured glasses?

I did this morning, after tasting a number of bright, fresh, inspiring Rose wines from both Australia and abroad. The perception of Rose has always been of a poor second cousin to other stable varieties such Shiraz, Chardonnay, Cabernet, and Pinot Noir. Rose was always considered, and perceived as a sickly sweet, non serious tipple that has no place in the ranks of quality vino.

The French have been doing good Rose for a long time, but unfotunately it has taken the rest of the world a little while to catch up. In the past winemakers have made Rose a little bit like you would mix cordial. Take a bit of red wine, little bit of white wine, add a bit of sugar, and flog it for cheap thrills.

These days however there is a resurgence of Rose winemaking and consuming, and never shall it be considered for repository again. Many winemakers are taking the production of Rose very seriously indeed, and haved heeded the want of younger consumers wanting fresh, vibrant, but serious wines.  More care is taken in the vineyard, juice is run of the red skins at just the right time, and acididty and sugar balance are meticulously maintained.  It is quite apparent that many Australian Roses now have residual sugars now in the realms of Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris, with acidity at similar levels. This produces crisp, elegant wines that can command respect and proportionate prices.

Below are some recommendations from around the world.

Blush de la Ardeche 2006 ROSE France

“First made in 1991, lorious Spring-fresh Blush de la Ardeche just gets better and better. Made from the noble Cabernet grape it has an intense colour and a richness of blackcurrant flavour that evokes thoughts of warm Summer evenings. Add the quality reassurance of a Gold medal pedigree and the food-friendly savoury richness that hallmarks top pinks and you’ve a seriously worth rose. Vibrant pink with mouthwatering strawberry-and-cream aromas and crisp succulent red berry fruit flavours. Very drinkable on its own or with food.”

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De Bortoli Yarra Valley Pinot Noir Rose

“The palate is low in acid, textured and finishes with a soft, refreshing dryness.Fruit was grown and harvested specifically for Rose. No saignee (juice run off) was used. Fruit was destemmed and immediately pressed. The juice was settled overnight before being racked to old French oak casks where it was allowed to complete primary and malolactic fermentation naturally. The wine was then aged on lees for several months before racking and bottling.”

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Frizzante de Bomberosa 2006 ROSE Spain

“We can’t wait for you to try this, a powerful NEW gently sparkling rose crafted from the very same grapes as your all-time No.1 red legendary El Bombero and its a pink sister Bomberosa, sensational stuff! Bomberosa is our bestselling Spanish rose made by star winemaker Xavier Domeque from Garnacha, the best grape for rose because it’s so fruity according to Wine Spectator. It seemed a natural progression to make a sparkling version too. Xavier’s Frizzante de Bomberosa has the depth of pure bramble flavour you only get from ancient low-yielding Garnacha vines (some 90 years old!) and the bubbles give it a lovely lift. You may already know that Xavier makes great Cava but this gentle sparkler is more special AND a lot rarer. Vibrant pink with enticing red berry aromas and powerfully refreshing juice-filled strawberry and redcurrant flavours. Soft gentle bubbles dance across the palate. Perfect for entertaining.”

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Angoves Nine Vines Grenache Shiraz Rose

“Vibrant, lively and pink, this wine shouts freshness from the first drop poured into the glass. Aromas of raspberry sorbet and ripe cherry dominate the nose. The palate abounds in lifted, fresh summer berry flavours and a fresh, crisp finish with length and balance.”

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