Rosé wines have become fashionable year-round, such is the popularity of the style.
The rule book for which are the best grapes to use is controlled in some countries and doesn’t exist at all in others, such as New Zealand.
The colour guide for Rosé producers to follow has been developed for French producers, but for New Zealand producers, it is wide open to interpretation and the current trend is towards lighter hues – such as pale pinkish/reddish or that of onion skin.
Rosé is best drunk upon release and for around a year, maybe two at best.
Cameron Douglas MS explores some of the options in this month’s tasting guide, here are some of his top picks…
Bald Hills ‘Friends and Lovers’ Single Vineyard Rosé 2023, Bannockburn, Central Otago
Bald Hills ‘Friends and Lovers’ Single Vineyard Rosé 2023, Bannockburn, Central Otago A fragrant and enticing bouquet of white flowers and fresh red berries, with notes of red fruit tea and apple adding to its allure. The palate is crisp and dry at first, followed by fruit flavors that mirror the bouquet. Vibrant acidity, superfine fruit tannins, and a light chalky mouthfeel frame the wine beautifully. Balanced and well-made, it is best enjoyed from 2024 through the end of summer 2027.
Points: 93
RRP: $30.00
Distributor: Bald Hill Wines
Phone: (022) 158 0262
www.baldhills.co.nz
Dicey ‘Dice’ Rosé 2024, Central Otago
There’s no mistaking the aromatic lift, with a bouquet of fresh peach, red apple skin, spring blossoms, cherry, and a light gravel-mineral quality. A crisp, dry wine touches the palate first, with very bright acidity and youthful energy. Flavours of stone and tree fruits reflect the bouquet, along with a touch of citrus. There’s a fine, chalky fruit-tannin texture that adds mouthfeel. A balanced and well-made wine, best enjoyed from 2024 through the end of summer 2026.
Points: 93
RRP: $70.00
Distributor: Red+White Cellar
Phone: (0800) 946 3792
www.dicey.nz
Leefield Station Pinot Noir Rosé 2024, Marlborough
A polished pink and ruby-hued appearance leads to a bouquet and palate of fresh raspberry and plum, with a hint of red cherry and strawberry jam, creating a salivating mouthfeel. Superfine fruit tannins and a backbone of acidity ensure a crunchy and refreshing delivery of ripe fruits and texture. Balanced and well-made, it’s best enjoyed from 2024 through the end of summer 2026.
Points: 93
RRP: $21.99
Distributor: Lion
Phone: (09) 347 2000
www.marisco.co.nz
To read all of Cameron’s wine reviews, click here!
Cameron Douglas is New Zealand’s first and only Master Sommelier. An experienced wine commentator, judge, reviewer, presenter and consultant, he is the Beverage Director & Group Sommelier for Rodd & Gunn and is the Patron of the New Zealand Sommeliers and Wine Professionals Association. Formerly academically in charge of the Wine & Beverage Programme at AUT in Auckland, Douglas has also consulted to a variety of establishments, taking care of their wine lists, wine and food pairings, and staff training matters, and he currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Court of Master Sommeliers Americas.
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