In many of the world’s leading wine markets there is an over supply of wine and falling consumer demand. However, there is good news as the sales of premium quality Rosé wines are increasing. The world consumption of Rosé increased by over 40% since 2000s, according to the Nielsen.
Wine producers from many countries are making more rosé wines that ever before. The increased awareness and renewed popularity of the style of wines, particularly from Provence in southern France, has been boosted by famous celebrities such as Jon Bon Jovi, Sarah Jessica Parker, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, putting their names of Rosé wines.
Before the recent return to popularity Rosé was often overlooked as being inferior to other wines and only to be consumed during the warm summer months, which is not the case because there is nothing more refreshing than a chilled glass of Rosé at any time of the year.
What is Rosé and how is it made?
Basically it is made from red grapes, such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, Bobal, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Pinot Noir, that are fermented as if they were white grapes. The colour of the wine comes from the skin of the grapes, which are pressed until the desired colour is achieved. The juice is then transferred to a tank to be fermented at low temperatures, similar to white wines, in order to preserve the fresh fruit aromas. Another method is to leave the juice in contact with the skins for several hours, a process known as maceration, until the desired colour of Rosé is achieved, followed by a cool fermentation.
There are many different styles and colours of rosé wine. The colours range from pale bronze, similar to the skin of an onion, to deep pink, passing through various shades of salmon. The colour does not determine the quality, rather preferences of particularly markets.
Internationally the Provencal style of Rosé is the most well known. However, here in Valencia the Bobal grape has many positive characteristics that make it ideal for making premium quality Rosés. I believe that there is an opportunity to create more successful Valencia wine brands made from Rose. The local climate is well suited for producing Organic wines, which adds value. With more than 10 millions visitors to the region each year there is a captive market. There should be a selection of good quality Valencia Rosés on every wine list or every wine bar with elegant designs.
Spain has a reputation for producing some of the best rosé wines in the world. In terms of variety of styles depending on the grapes varieties whether it be Tempranillo from Rioja or Garnacha from Navarra.
Rosés are not only still wines. There are wonderful sparkling Rosés to be discovered, with the aromas and flavours of red fruits and freshness of a white wine. Look out for Cava’s, Champagnes and Prosecco that are Rosés.
So add Rosé to your list of wines to try.
