In ancient Greece, it was considered cultivated to blend white and red grapes. Naturally light and pleasant, they were the talk of the Mediterranean. Later when the Romans landed in Provence, they used their trade networks to make the wine popular in the Roman world. Even today, Provence is the epicenter of the rosé world.
The quality of rosé had its ups and downs in the ensuing centuries but in the 2000s, the fortunes of rosé began to rise. Today finely crafted rosé wines are available around the globe. Known for its versatility and food-friendly nature, these jewel-colored wines are particularly outstanding in hot weather.
We’ve curated a list of some of our favorite rosé wines. Chill, pop, and enjoy!
Acquesi Brachetto DOC
– This Italian sparkler is fresh, soft, and balanced. Made with 100% Brachetto, the bottle design says “party time.” Red fruit, spices, and a pop of sweetness. SRP: $17.99
Alma Negra Brut Nature –We can’t get enough of this fresh strawberry blend of Malbec and Pinot Noir. Zingy with a dash of lime. We put this in our “people pleaser” category since everyone who has tasted it loves it. Bright and elegant. Argentina. SRP $21.99
Art of Earth Rosé 2019 – An aromatic blend of Grenache (70%) and Syrah (30%) from the warm, Mediterranean-influenced south of France. This wine is organic and made with old vines. A tart accent of strawberries and raspberry. Good acidity. SRP: $13.99
Fête des Fleurs Rosé 2020 – From the diverse and sometimes stoney “galet” soils of Provence, this Rosé is made in the traditional way with characteristics of tart red fruits, brioche, and wild berries. You may not be familiar with all these grapes, but they are key to the world-famous Provence wine style: 40% Grenache, 35% Cinsault, 10% Carignan, 10% Syrah, 3% Mourvèdre, 2% Rolle SRP: $18.99
Hampton Water 2020 -- Famed rocker Jon Bon Jovi and son Jesse Bongiovi have teamed with famed winemaker Gérard Bertrand for this wine from France’s Languedoc region. The blend of Grenache 60%, Cinsault 15%, Mourvèdre 15%, and Syrah 10% rocks with citrus and strawberry. It gets added complexity from oak aging. $19.95.
Maison Marcel Hearts Rosé – The bottle from Provence features a “hearts” design by artist James Goldcrown, making with perfect for a gift or party. Crisp, well-balanced, and slightly off-dry taste profile. White ripe peach, lychee, and elderflower on the inside. Grenache, Merlot, Black Muscat, White Muscat. SRP $18.99
Maison Marcel “Sparkling Hearts” Rosé – The sparking version features delicate notes of white peach and nectarine. The hearts on the outside will win your heart on the inside. This "Cuvée Provence" showcases a beautiful rose gold color. SRP $24.99
Mosketto Frizzante Rosato 2019 - Mosketto is the combination of two famous grapes, Moscato and Brachetto, both locally grown in Italy’s Piedmont region. This is mildly sweet, naturally bubbly, and low in alcohol (just 6.5%). The wines are made in the same way as the more classic Moscato D’Asti but the fermentation is stopped to retain the sweetness. Summer fun on the patio. SRP: $12.00
STUDIO by Miraval 2020 -- STUDIO by Miraval Rosé is produced with the same know-how as its sister Miraval Rosé. We find this to be an excellent buy. Named for the soon-to-be-reopened music studio at the Château that has been the recording site of artists from Pink Floyd to Sade, STUDIO by Miraval is a blend of Cinsault, Grenache, Rolle, and Tibouren. Sourced from the French Riviera, it is full-bodied, with aromas of citrus, grapefruit, and figs with a lovely mineral structure. SRP $15.99
La Vieille Ferme Sparkling Rosé NV – La Vieille Ferme is one of the top French values to hit our shores. The price and quality are hard to beat and chances are you can easily find the brand on your local shelves. A versatile and delicious choice, this sparkler is crisp and acidic, thanks to the limestone soils that allow the vines to absorb water. A perfect refresher with a salad on a warm day. SRP $14.99
La Vieille Ferme Rosé 2020 – A blend of Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah, this rosé offers a bouquet of red fruit, citrus highlights, and floral accents. It offers everything you could want: fruit, freshness, and beautiful color, and the price is a mere $11.99. This is America’s #1 selling French wine. Perfect for dinner or as an aperitif.
Full disclosure: The wines were received as a marketing sample.
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