Bright pink, soft salmon, blushed coral, and deep ruby - when it comes to the spectrum of Rosé’s there is a rainbow of options on the shelves. This pretty wine has its roots in Provence, France. The hot Mediterranean sun and cool ocean breezes created the perfect setting for producing a nice crisp glass of rosé. Synonymous with summer this wine is now made and enjoyed all over the world. But with the world of choice out there it can be difficult to know which style to uncork at you next patio happy hour.

Typically, rosé is made from red wine grapes from two main methods: direct press or skin maceration. During direct press the colour or “blush” comes from the pigments in the grape’s skin when they are crushed. The maceration method involves letting the juices soak with the grape skins for a period of time determined by the winemaker. The longer the juice soaks with the skins the darker and more textural the wine will be. With this in mind a general rule of thumb is lighter in colour = crisp, aromatic, and fresh while a darker-hued rosé = rich fruit flavours and fuller body.

On the light end of the spectrum we have Torre Zambra Rosé:
Hailing from the Adriatic coast this Italian rosé is fresh yet complex with notes of wild strawberry, cherry, and a hint of plum. It’s also organic and sustainably produced so you don’t have to feel bad when you finish the bottle in one sitting.

Representing the darker pinks we have Hester Creek Cabernet Franc Rosé:
Ruby to the eyes, nose and palate, this rosé has memorable aromas of strawberry, candied rhubarb and ripe raspberry. Balanced on the edge of tartness and sweetness this is a wine that’s difficult to stop sipping.

Need to cool off? Try making Frosé! By blending ice, frozen fruit, and rosé together you’ll get a pretty in pink adult slushie.

Recipe:
• 2 cups rose
• 1.5 cups frozen strawberries
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 tsp xantham gum (optional)
The secret ingredient of xantham gum prevents separation of the slushie bits and the wine.
Whether you prefer something succulently sweet, or bone dry with the end of summer approaching there’s never been a better time to stop and smell the rosé.