Spring is the natural optimist of the year, full of hope and potential, and if there’s one drink that embodies it perfectly it’s rosé.
Rosé is the fastest growing wine style in the world, and Australia is no exception. The Economist had a recent article on the growth of rosé. It’s not just popular with drinkers; a rosé brand is becoming a celebrity favourite, with Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Kylie Minogue and now Post Malone getting on board. LVMH recently acquired a stake in Chateau D’Escalans, whose Whispering Angel can be found on many a wine list (though well above $20).
So, what’s all the fuss about? First things first, there is a lot of very horrible rosé around, particularly in the bars of the French Riviera. Served chilled and generously, you only realise this the next day, courtesy of a blinding headache, so I’d recommend trying some decent stuff first, then, having worked out what you like, see if you can find the same style for less in another wine – this is why you will often find me writing about wine over $20.
Some to sample
Brangelina’s Chateau Miraval, for around $40. “A complex, flavoursome blend of cinsault, grenache, syrah and rolle, it’s bursting with notes of raspberry, wild strawberries, citrus and melon, finishing with a fresh, vibrant acidity.” Chateau Rimauresq Côtes de Provence Cru Classé Rosé, $38 from Cloudwine. “Fresh aromatics of red berries, white flowers, and ginger and a body that balances deep citrus and floral flavours with zesty minerality and excellent clarity.”
If you’re feeling flush
If you’re feeling flush, try a Bandol Rosé like Domaine Tempier – at around $80 it’s not cheap, but it definitely sets a benchmark: “Intense fruit and floral nose…the palate is rounded and full, with fruity aromas of peach and pomegranate, followed by delicate spice notes and a pleasant freshness created by acidic balance.”
Local delights
And finally, one from closer to home – and this is where we discover that I have something in common with Brad Pitt, Kylie and co, my own rosé: Avalon Rosé. The 2022 Avalon is a blend of those Provence classics, Grenache and Mourvèdre. It’s been fermented and aged on full lees to add character. Around $40 in select bottle shops or at avalonwine.co. “Aromas of ruby grapefruit, some pith. Orange marmalade, with apricot, and also hints of bright raspberries and strawberries. The palate receives a great texture with firm acid-driven, chalky tannins. It’s dry and serious.”
Avalon, the suburb, is blessed with two bottle shops that have excellent ranges of rosé above the $20 mark, but what about the under? Here are some worth trying.
Little Yering 2022 Rosé, available at most good bottle shops for around $20. It’s an unconventional blend of Merlot and Shiraz, but they know what they’re doing: “Silk, fresh and approachable…bright berry fruits…savoury hint of anise and thyme.”
Le Pont recommends de Capel, Jay rosé for $25, I haven’t tried it though. Yangarra Grenache is a good one too, a very French style and organic, priced around $25, but the 2022 Paulett’s Sangiovese won all the trophies, and I can’t say I am a fan. Strange world.