In recent decades, the wine industry has increasingly recognized rosé as a versatile and sophisticated category, well-suited to a variety of occasions. Leading the charge are producers from Provence and the broader French Mediterranean, where rosés typically showcase blends dominated by Grenache, complemented by Cinsault and Syrah. The best examples feature a subtle tannic structure that adds complexity to the palate, making them ideal companions for fine dining. These wines are often presented in flint-clear glass to highlight their signature pale pink-peach hues, underscoring the importance of visual appeal in rosé marketing.
A prevailing trend favors very pale rosés, some almost devoid of color beyond a hint of onion skin. These ultra-light styles, bordering on blanc de noirs, exhibit red fruit, garrigue, and mineral notes, though their subtlety can challenge traditional expectations of rosé identity. Winemakers experimenting with oak aging aim for greater complexity but risk compromising the delicate character of the wine, which contributes to rosé’s generally higher price points.
Judges at recent tastings awarded numerous Gold medals to balanced, unoaked rosés priced under £20, with strong showings from Provence and Southern France, as well as standout entries from Rioja’s Castillo de Albai, Sicily’s Planeta, and Chile’s Viñedos Puertas in Maule. Silver medals recognized quality wines from Portugal, Greece, Australia, New Zealand, and England.
The £20–£30 category proved a sweet spot for unoaked dry rosés, with Gold medals granted to renowned labels such as Whispering Angel, Château Puech-Haut’s Theyron, Château Sainte Marguerite’s Fantastique, and Cantina San Marzano’s Amai Susumaniello, among others. These wines offer vibrant red fruit, crisp acidity, and refined structure.
In the £30–£50 range, while fewer wines stood out, Domaines Ott secured a Gold medal, exemplifying wines with pronounced cellar craftsmanship. Here, carefully managed oak use—typically second or third fill barriques or demi-muids—enhances complexity without overpowering the fruit. Austria’s Weingut Strehn earned a Master medal for its Seerosé, and Argentine Bodegas Bianchi, alongside Provence’s Château d’Esclans, received Gold and Master distinctions respectively.
At the premium level (£50 and above), rosés demonstrate the structure and sophistication to match Michelin-starred cuisine. Château d’Esclans’ Les Clans and Gérard Bertrand’s Clos du Temple earned top honors, while Château d’Esclans’ Garrus claimed the Grand Master title, cementing its status as a world-class rosé.
This burgeoning recognition reflects rosé’s evolution from a secondary option to a celebrated and dynamic category, rich with energy and diversity. Detailed lists of medal-winning rosés across categories—including sparkling, still, unoaked, oaked, dry, and sweet—are available, alongside curated selections spotlighting top wines under £20, between £20 and £30, and premium bottles over £30.
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