A Click N Drink Guide to Rosé
Posted by Tamsin on 25th Jul 2025
Rosé wine has captivated wine lovers for centuries, thanks to its vibrant colours, refreshing profiles, and sheer versatility. Neither red nor white, rosé sits in its own category, offering a spectrum of flavours that suit a variety of occasions, from summer picnics to elegant dinner parties. But not all rosé is created equal – the style, flavour, and even colour depend on how it’s made and where it’s produced. We've put together a guide so you can explore all the popular styles of rosé wine, their unique characteristics, and a few standout bottles you can try for yourself.
A Brief History of Rosé
Rosé wine is arguably one of the oldest styles of wine. Ancient winemaking techniques often resulted in pale wines because grapes were crushed by hand and left on their skins only briefly before fermentation. Over time, winemakers developed more deliberate methods to create rosé: either by limiting skin contact to achieve lighter colour and softer tannins or by blending small amounts of red wine into white wine (though this is now largely restricted to sparkling wines, such as Champagne).
Today, rosé is made worldwide, but each region has its own distinctive approach, leading to a wide range of colours and flavours – from delicate salmon-pink hues to vibrant cherry-red tones.
Provence Rosé – The Classic Pale Style
When most people picture rosé, they imagine the pale, dry style synonymous with Provence in southern France. Provence rosés are typically made using a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah grapes, producing elegant wines with notes of red berries, peach, melon, and a subtle hint of herbs.
One to Try: Chateau Minuty M Provence Rosé 75cl
A benchmark for the style, Chateau Minuty M offers delicate floral aromas, flavours of fresh citrus and peach, and a crisp, dry finish – perfect for warm summer evenings.
Rioja Rosado – Spanish Personality in a Glass
Spain’s Rioja region is best known for its bold red wines, but its rosados have a distinctive charm. Typically made from Tempranillo and Garnacha, Rioja rosados tend to have more body and structure than their Provencal cousins, while still retaining vibrant fruit and a refreshing finish.
One to Try: Carlos Serres Rosé Rioja 75cl
With juicy notes of raspberry and strawberry balanced by a crisp acidity, this rosé is versatile enough to pair with tapas, grilled seafood, or even charcuterie.
Pinot Grigio Blush – Light and Easy Drinking
For a lighter, approachable style, Pinot Grigio Blush (or Pinot Grigio Rosé) is a popular choice. It’s made from Pinot Grigio grapes with just enough skin contact to give it a subtle pink hue and delicate fruit flavours.
One to Try: I Castelli Pinot Grigio Blush DOC 75cl
Expect soft notes of peach and strawberry with a crisp, dry finish – ideal for those who enjoy a gentle, refreshing wine that’s perfect for everyday sipping.
Sancerre Rosé – Elegant and Sophisticated
Sancerre, in France’s Loire Valley, is renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc, but its rosés are made primarily from Pinot Noir. Sancerre rosés offer delicate aromas and refined acidity, often with a mineral edge that reflects the region’s terroir.
One to Try: Guy Saget Sancerre Rosé 75cl
This wine combines bright redcurrant and raspberry notes with a crisp, elegant finish, making it an excellent match for light salads, seafood, or soft cheeses.
Zinfandel Rosé – Sweet and Fruity
On the sweeter side, Zinfandel Rosé (often called White Zinfandel in the US) has been a long-time favourite for those who prefer a fruit-forward, slightly sweeter style of rosé. Bursting with strawberry, watermelon, and candy-like notes, it’s easy-drinking and great for casual occasions.
One to Try: Healy & Gray Zinfandel Rosé 75cl
Packed with juicy strawberry and watermelon flavours, this sweeter style is perfect for picnics, BBQs, or simply enjoying on its own.
New & Modern International Styles
Beyond the traditional European regions, winemakers around the world are experimenting with exciting new rosé styles, often using unique grape varieties and modern techniques. These wines often offer bold flavours and vibrant colours, appealing to a new generation of wine lovers.
Ones to try: Balauri Rosé 75cl
A modern, fruit-forward rosé with ripe berry flavours and a smooth, refreshing finish – a versatile option for adventurous palates.
From Argentina, this Malbec rosé is packed with vibrant strawberry and cherry flavours with a crisp, dry edge – a fresh take on a grape traditionally associated with bold reds.
Which Rosé is Right for You? From pale and dry Provence to fruity Zinfandel and everything in between, there’s a rosé style to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you prefer crisp and elegant or rich and sweet, exploring different styles is part of the fun. So why not pick up one of these standout bottles and discover your new favourite rosé?