Top quality rosé wines – still and sparkling – are on the rise, as Decanter World Wine Awards results attest. Discover the standout rosés to try this summer and beyond.
Among the big stories to emerge from the results of the 2024 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) was the rise of rosé. Wine drinkers are ‘drinking pink’, encouraged by the marketing clout and celebrity stardust of plush-pocketed rosé producers – and an uptick in quality.
‘It won’t surprise readers to know that our rosé wine entries grow with every year that passes (we judged almost 800 dry and medium-dry still pink wines this year),’ the DWWA judging panel commented.
There is more rosé around and it’s of better quality; the term ‘premium’ is now an apt descriptor for top-class rosé, not just red, white and sparkling wines.
This year two rosé wines – one still, one sparkling – were awarded Best in Show. There were just 50 wines out of the 18,143 evaluated to receive this plaudit in 2024, accounting for just 0.28% of the total wines tasted.
DWWA 2024: Top-scoring rosé wines to try
Château d’Esclans, Les Clans, Côtes de Provence, France 2022
97 Best in Show Delicate peach-pink in colour, with a haunting aromatic profile that mixes cream, white almond, peach and gardenia notes with pastel finesse. On the palate, it is deeper than many of its peers to the point where you could almost say ‘concentrated’, and perhaps shows brighter acidity than some of our previous winners. That cream, though, naps and envelops all, and the white almond depth fuses admirably with the wine’s vinosity to provide the dominant structural frame, rather than relying on acidity. Is there even a hint of green olive? Maybe; maybe not; it’s Provence rosé, after all. Hints and whispers are all. Alc 14%
Rosé all day? These are the 10 best bottles, according to sommelier
By Jill Waldbieser, CNN Underscored
Chateau d’Esclans Whispering Angel Rose 2023
A real crowd-pleaser, this pale pink stunner is made in the Provencal style, with the winery set just northeast of St. Tropez. We love that even though it sips bone-dry, you still get a medium-body flavor, with berries and currants on the top taste.
Chateau D’Esclans Les Clans Rose
If you’re looking for a splurge, we love this full-bodied hit of summertime. A complex, intense wine, it also happens to balance a subtle creamy vanilla with its tropical flavors. Keep this one close by when entertaining ones you love.
On June 11, after weeks of rain, the sun was shining, as were the smiles on the faces in our arty haunt in the heart of the 8th arrondissement of Paris. 80 of our loyal customers, especially young this year, had indeed met at the Galerie Guillaume, for a tasting of summer wines. A little tour of France of wines that we will tell you in the form of a photo album.
The little hands of the iDealwine employees are busy at the end of the day, customers are expected at 6:30 p.m.
On the walls of the Galerie Guillaume, the exhibition Lights of Day and Night by the artist François-Xavier de Boissoudy. Here, “View of the River”, 2024, ink on paper, 125 x 100cm.
THE WINEGROWERS PRESENT
PROVENCE: CHÂTEAU D’ESCLANS WITH VICTORIA DESPLANCKE
We continue our little tour of France through Provence. Judging by your purchases, the whispering angels have inspired you for this summer. • Whispering Angel 2023 (rosé) • Château d’Esclans Côtes de Provence 2022 (rosé) • Les Clans 2022 (rosé) • Garrus 2022 (rosé)
Pairing tips for rosé wines
Exploring wine pairing can completely transform the dining experience, elevating both the dish and the drink chosen.
When it comes to rosé wine , versatility is its trademark, capable of accompanying a wide range of dishes and occasions.
Rosé wine stands out for its lightness and freshness, characteristics that make it perfect for pairing with foods with a delicate to moderately intense flavor.
Tips for Pairing Rosé Wine
Ideal Dishes for Rosé Win
Rosé wines are known for their ability to pair with a variety of dishes. From light salads and seafood dishes to white meats and mild cheeses, the pairing can be surprisingly broad. A key aspect for successful pairing is considering the aromatic profile and structure of the chosen rosé wine.
For example, a rosé from Provence, famous for its subtlety and floral notes, pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or lightly seasoned fish dishes. A fuller-bodied rosé, perhaps from the Tavel region in France, can support dishes with more intense flavors, such as grilled white meats or Mediterranean dishes.
Cheeses and Rosé Wine: A Versatile Combination
The choice of cheese to accompany your rosé wine can vary widely depending on the strength and style of the wine. Fresh, soft cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert, complement the lightness and freshness of more subtle rosés. On the other hand, cheeses with more striking flavors, such as feta or even chèvre, can enhance the attributes of a more robust rosé.
It is important to note that the serving temperature of the wine also influences the pairing experience. A rosé wine served slightly chilled, around 8-10°C, will best reveal its qualities, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of creamy cheeses or the saltiness of marine appetizers.
Considering these aspects, pairing rosé wines is not limited to rigid rules, but rather to experimentation and balance between the flavors of the dish and the wine. Whether for an elegant dinner or a casual picnic, rosé wine offers endless pairing possibilities, capable of pleasing different palates.
Glass of rosé wine and cheese (Image: IA)
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
What does rosé wine taste like?
The flavor of rosé wine is remarkably diverse, varying significantly depending on the grape used, the terroir and the production method. In general, rosé wines are characterized by their lightness and freshness, with a delicate balance between acidity and sweetness. Many have fruity and floral notes, including aromas of strawberry, cherry, raspberry and roses, with mineral touches in some examples. This combination of flavors makes rosé wine extremely versatile, suitable for both casual and more formal occasions.
When tasting a rosé wine, it is possible to perceive a complexity that defies the notion that it is a less sophisticated option compared to reds and whites. Its flavor palette, which can range from citrus notes to herbaceous touches, reflects the diversity of winemaking techniques and choices made by the winemaker, providing a unique and pleasant sensorial experience.
What is the difference between red and rosé wine?
The main difference between red wine and rosé lies in the production method, especially the contact time between the grape juice and the skins. Red wines are produced by allowing a longer maceration period, which extracts more tannins, color and flavors from the grape skins. This results in fuller-bodied wines, with greater complexity of flavors and aging potential. Rosé wines are made by limiting this contact, resulting in a lighter color, less tannins and lighter, fruitier flavors, reflecting the essence of freshness.
Another important difference is the versatility in gastronomic pairing. While reds generally pair best with red meat and more robust dishes, rosés have the ability to pair with a wider variety of foods, from light starters to white meats and seafood, thanks to their lightness and balanced aromatic profile.
When do you drink rosé wine?
Rosé wine is exceptionally versatile, suitable for a variety of occasions, from a relaxing outdoor picnic to an elegant dinner party. Its lightness and freshness make it the perfect choice for hot summer days, but its complexity and variety also allow it to be enjoyed all year round. Rosé is ideal for social events, such as parties and receptions, as it tends to be a “democratic” wine, pleasing a wide range of palates.
Furthermore, it is an excellent option for aperitifs or to accompany light meals, such as salads, seafood dishes and mild cheeses. The flexibility of rosé wine, capable of pairing with a variety of dishes, makes it a smart choice for any occasion that requires a sophisticated and accessible drink.
What are the best rosé wines?
The “best” rosé wines depend on personal taste, but some examples stand out on the international scene for their quality and representation. Rosé wines from Provence, France, are widely recognized for their excellence, exhibiting balance, freshness and aromatic subtlety. Brands such as Château d’Esclans (Whispering Angel) is (among) the most prestigious.
In addition to France, regions such as Spain, Italy and the United States also produce high-quality rosés. In Spain, rosés from Navarra offer excellent value for money, while in Italy, rosés from Tuscany and Sicily enchant with their personality. In the United States, the highlight is California rosés, which combine innovation and tradition. Choosing the best rosé wine should consider the desired flavor profile and the occasion, encouraging experimentation and personal discovery.
Summary
Variety of Flavors : Rosé wine has fruity and floral notes, such as strawberry, cherry, raspberry, and roses
Versatile Pairing : Ideal for light dishes, seafood, white meats and cheeses.
Key Differences : Less skin contact time differentiates rosé from reds, resulting in fewer tannins and lighter flavors.
Consumption Occasions : Perfect for any occasion, from casual picnics to elegant dinners.
Recommendations : Wines from Provence, Château d’Esclans stand out for its quality.
Curating the best wine in the Philippines for our community of wine lovers
WHISPERING ANGEL ROSÉ: PROVENCE’S ELEGANCE IN EVERY SIP
CRAFTSMANSHIP AND INNOVATION: THE ART OF WINEMAKING AT CHÂTEAU D’ESCLANS
At the heart of Whispering Angel’s allure lies the meticulous winemaking process, a symphony of craftsmanship and innovation orchestrated by the skilled hands at Château d’Esclans. From vine to bottle, every step is carefully choreographed to preserve the essence of Provence and capture the delicate flavors that define this iconic rosé.
HARVESTING: A LABOR OF LOVE The journey of Whispering Angel begins with the annual grape harvest, a labor of love that unfolds amidst the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence. Each September, from sunrise to noon, skilled vineyard workers carefully select and pick the ripest grapes, ensuring that only the finest fruit makes its way into the cellar. The harvest is conducted with precision, with grapes hand-picked and placed in small crates to avoid damage during transport.
SORTING Upon arrival at the cellars, the grapes undergo a rigorous sorting process to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used in the winemaking process. Manual sorting by experienced hands is followed by optical eye sorting, where grapes are meticulously inspected for health and quality. Only those grapes that meet the exacting standards of the winemaker are selected for vinification, a testament to Château d’Esclans’ commitment to excellence.
COOLING AND PRESSING Once sorted, the grapes are gently crushed to release their precious juice, which is then cooled to lock in its freshness and vibrancy. Temperature reduction is key to preserving the grapes’ delicate flavors, with the juice reaching temperatures as low as 7-8 degrees Celsius. This process ensures that Whispering Angel maintains its signature crispness and vitality, even as it undergoes fermentation.
FERMENTATION Fermentation is where the magic of winemaking truly begins. The juice, now transformed into wine, is placed in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to undergo fermentation. Here, yeast converts the grapes’ sugars into alcohol, while the wine develops its characteristic aromas and flavors. Throughout the fermentation process, careful monitoring and precise temperature control ensure that the wine retains its purity and elegance.
AGING AND BLENDING: THE ART OF ASSEMBLAGE After fermentation, the wine is aged to further develop its complexity and depth of flavor. Some batches may undergo barrel fermentation, where they are aged in oak barrels to impart subtle nuances of spice and texture. This methods pertains to the production of a portion of Rock Angel and Château d’Esclans while the two top end wines, Les Clans and Garrus are completely fermented and aged in oak barrels. Others may remain in stainless steel tanks to preserve their crispness and freshness. The final step is blending, where different batches of wine are carefully combined to achieve the desired flavor profile. The art of assemblage is a delicate balancing act, where each component plays a vital role in creating the harmonious whole that is Whispering Angel.
BOTTLING AND AGING Once blended, the wine is bottled and allowed to age, a process that allows its flavors to marry and evolve over time. While Whispering Angel is renowned for its youthful vibrancy, a period of aging adds complexity and depth to the wine, ensuring that it reaches its full potential upon release.
QUALITY CONTROL Throughout the winemaking process, rigorous quality control measures are in place to ensure that every bottle of Whispering Angel meets the highest standards of excellence. From vineyard to cellar, each step is carefully monitored and guided by the experienced hands of the winemaking team. This unwavering commitment to quality is what sets Whispering Angel apart, ensuring that every sip is a testament to the artistry and dedication of Château d’Esclans. It is this dedication to quality that has made Whispering Angel a beloved favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide, a wine that whispers of elegance and charm with every sip.
CULTURAL IMPACT: A GLOBAL PHENOMENON
Whispering Angel’s rise to prominence is a testament to its universal appeal. From chic rooftop bars in Makati and BGC to sun-drenched beaches in Palawan, Siargao, or Boracay, this iconic rosé has captivated wine lovers around the nation and around the globe. Its pale pink hue has become synonymous with sophistication, while its refreshing taste has made it the go-to choice for countless celebrations and gatherings. But Whispering Angel is more than just a wine; it is a cultural phenomenon. It has inspired a lifestyle centered around leisure, elegance, and conviviality, where every moment is an opportunity to savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether enjoyed with a casual meal or as an aperitif among friends, Whispering Angel embodies the spirit of enjoying life.
SAVORING THE TASTE OF WHISPERING ANGEL ROSÉ
Whispering Angel rosé tantalizes the palate with its exquisite flavor profile, offering a delightful balance of fruitiness, freshness, and elegance. Pouring a beautifully pale pink hue, it releases inviting aromas of fresh red berries, hints of peaches, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, Whispering Angel reveals ripe red berry fruitiness with a smooth and fleshy texture, culminating in a satisfying, smooth finish devoid of harsh astringency. Its versatility extends to pairing possibilities, making it an ideal match for light, summery dishes like seafood salads, grilled shrimp, or fresh sushi, as well as heartier Mediterranean fare such as herb-roasted chicken or grilled vegetables with olive oil. Whether enjoyed with friends at a casual gathering or as part of an intimate date night, Whispering Angel elevates every dining experience with its undeniable charm and elegance, offering a taste of Provence that beckons to be savored and celebrated. In every bottle of Whispering Angel, one discovers not just a wine, but a story waiting to be told. It is a testament to the beauty of Provence’s terroir, the artistry of winemaking, and the enduring appeal of a timeless classic inviting us to savor the elegance and sophistication of a truly exceptional wine.
Peering into our crystal ball instead of our crystal decanter.
By Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen
Rosé Is Going Haute
Drinking rosé throughout the year has gone from trend to permanent status, and we will see more and more premium offerings entering the market. We’ve been expecting to see luxury competition for pioneers in the space such as Domaine Ott, Château d’Esclans, and Gérard Bertrand for some time, and LVMH’s major investment in Château Minuty earlier this year sealed the deal as far as we’re concerned. Expanded—and pricier—rosé selections are on their way to a restaurant near you.
Indulge in the world of exquisite rosé wines, where delicate hues meet captivating flavors.
By Paul Kushnera
In this exploration of the finest rosés, we delve into the artistry and craftsmanship that elevate this elegant varietal.
From sun-kissed vineyards to expert vintners, our journey uncovers the nuanced profiles and timeless appeal of rosé wines.
Discover the allure of blush-tinted elixirs that dance on the palate, offering a symphony of notes that range from fruity to floral.
Join us as we navigate the vineyards, uncork the stories, and celebrate the allure of these cherished pink libations.
Château d’Esclans Les Clans
Within the realm of exquisite rosé wines, Château d’Esclans Les Clans emerges as a true gem.
Embodying the epitome of elegance, this rosé offers a sensory journey that encapsulates the essence of Provence.
Its pale, ethereal hue entices the eye, while the palate is graced with layers of red fruit and subtle florals.
Les Clans stands as a testament to the art of rosé, an embodiment of the passion and expertise that define the finest in pink wine craftsmanship.
This rosé enchants the palate with its refreshing crispness and subtle minerality, making it an ideal companion for warm gatherings or leisurely afternoons.
Whispering Angel Rosé
Whispering Angel Rosé is a symphony of flavors that transports the senses to the sun-soaked vineyards of Provence.
Delicate aromas of red berries and white blossoms entice the nose, while the palate revels in notes of ripe peach and citrus.
Its crisp acidity and smooth finish make it a versatile companion for any occasion, from leisurely lunches to glamorous soirées.
Embark on a journey of elegance with Whispering Angel Rosé, where every sip whispers tales of indulgence.
I have always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. My restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time I turned 17 I was serving tables, and by 19 I was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.
In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, I opened my first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Château d’Esclans in southern France’s Côtes de Provence. (Photo courtesy of the winery)
Bertrand Léon sends free-run juice into 600-liter demi-muids for 11 months, stirring the lees twice a week. That translates into an undercurrent of richness to the already-rich piecrust and grapefruit-pith flavors. The intensity of its flavors should gain more clarity with time, and the wine has the structure to age.
91
Château d’Esclans 2021 Côtes de Provence Les Clans
$85
Every week, our editors highlight a wine that intrigued them in our blind panel tastings, expanding on their tasting note in this space. These are entirely editorial choices; there are no paid placements. Subscribers can also access the original tasting note by searching here.
Rosé is an all year round wine, but everyone knows that rosés become more irresistible in summer. So, glasses at the ready for this year’s seasonal round-up of new wines and new vintages.
To repeat a few things I said last year: rosés aren’t only for the aperitif or poolside slots. They often make very good food wines, not least with the sort of dishes you might be having in warm weather – grilled and barbecued fish, seafood, charcuterie, salads, vegetable tarts, chicken dishes, pasta and picnic fare.
All wines need to be kept out of sunlight to avoid spoilage by light strike (does what it says on the tin) but rosés are often more vulnerable, above all when they’re in clear glass bottles. Ideally, we’d have dark, opaque wine glasses, but that’s a step too far.
Pink wines should be served chilled and then kept cold while you make further inroads into the bottle, box or pouch. Wine cooler sleeves kept in the freezer or ice box are invaluable for bottles. Chilling your glass by swirling a couple of ice cubes round it before you start is another good move when the sun is beating down. If your wine does end up too warm, you can always resort to an ice cube lobbed into the liquid itself.
This year I’m kicking off my recommendations with three wines in sustainable packaging. These are all the more relevant and praiseworthy in the context of rosé when so many, especially from Provence, come in absurdly heavy glass bottles.
I’ve given empty bottle weights at the end of each tasting note when I have them – and I can tell you there are some shockers. I’m sorry to say that three of my top-scoring wines are the worst offenders by a long way. If Chanel (yes, that Chanel) can put its Domaine de L’Ile rosé, my other top scoring wine, in a bottle weighing only 409g, others could too. When will they wake up to the harm they’re doing?
After the sustainably packaged trio, the order is in ascending order of price. Two Tavel rosés I really wanted to recommend, Domaine Maby La Forcadière (Yapp Brothers) and Arbousset rosé (Tesco), have fallen by the wayside because they have moved on to 2022 from the 2021 vintage I tasted. I’m sure the new vintages will be worth a try. There’s also a lack of English rosés (my fault).
A score of 93 is equivalent to a gold medal; 89–92 is silver; 85–88 is bronze.
Whispering Angel 2022, Côtes de Provence, France
This was very tight-lipped when I tasted it at the beginning of the year, but has now relaxed into flowing, floral, red fruit and vanilla-patisserie aromas and apricot and red apple on the palate. Lemon, elegantly bitter grapefruit rind and salinity provide and structure and freshness. Another impressive, appealing Whispering Angel. 13%. 596g.
91
Widely available at £15.95–£19.99. Half bottles and magnums available from Majestic and Waitrose
Château d’Esclans 2021, Côtes de Provence, France
Scented summer-garden nose with an inviting hint of juniper berry. Rich, pure fruit on the palate with discreet, toasted vanilla and oak, a silky texture and fine acidity. Elegantly shaped and well-balanced. Primarily Grenache and Rolle (Vermentino) vinified in a combination of 600-litre oak barrels and stainless steel. 13.5%. 978g – ouch!
Château d’Esclans Les Clans 2021, Côtes de Provence, France
Mainly free-run juice from 50-plus year old Grenache, Rolle (Vermentino) and Syrah, fermented and aged for 10 months, with bâtonnage, in 600-litre oak barrels (one and two year old). The oak is still quite pronounced on both nose and palate, but not so that it overwhelms the floral, apricot and raspberry fruit, the creamy, close-textured richness, citrus sweetness and core of acidity. It will be better in a year, but is already a serious fine wine when given time to breathe in the glass. A good match for lobster and rich seafood dishes, vitello tonnato and pork ragù with capers. 14%. 975g –ouch again!
Château d’Esclans Garrus 2021, Côtes de Provence, France
I tasted this at 8ºC and 12ºC and then drank it at 12º+C. By all means serve it cooler if you like, but the higher temperature allows this young, tightly wound, oak-fermented and matured rosé to uncoil and express itself. And you’ll want to let it do that because it’s an exceptional wine: reminiscent of white Burgundy in its hazelnut and mineral aromas, buttery taste and silky texture, but with added orange pomander, exotic spice and incense. It’s intense, complex, powerful and balanced with an impeccable interplay of fruit, acidity and oak. Designed to go with food – lobster, salmon, pork, veal, lamb chops, savoury dishes in cream sauce and so on. Drink from now to 2033, if stored in cellar conditions. 14.5%. 979g – and ouch yet again!
ANNIVERSARY 10th PINK DAY festival: you can enjoy pink wines on April 22 at Lauba: a house for people and art (and wine)
PINK DAY Zagreb – a festival dedicated to rosé – celebrates a significant jubilee this year, its tenth edition! At the media conference held in Lauba, the festival program was presented, and the founder and president of the Festival, journalist, editor and publicist Sanja Muzaferija , said on that occasion:
PINK DAY Zagreb, apart from being a rosé festival, is also a kind of dedication to female energy, spring and the beauty of life; the ceremony of a rosy view of a perhaps slightly better world that we all hope for. And rosé is exactly that: bright, fluffy – and the right choice for hot summer days. During the last ten years, the Festival has promoted moderate, feminine consumption of wine, and according to the winemakers themselves, PINK DAY Zagreb significantly helped to change the attitude towards rosé, and thus the Croatian wine list. I am proud that we contributed to rosé as a light and spring wine gaining a completely new and much better reputation than it had before us. Of course, there is also our Green in Pink which celebrates top domestic extra virgin olive oils, and since last year we also have pink gins, tonics, liqueurs, cocktails…
Celebrating the big, jubilee of the “small” boutique festival , which after Vinistra and VinoCom is also the oldest major wine festival in Croatia, PINK DAY prepared this year the richest program so far, and everything started celebratoryly at the press conference – with welcome sparkling wine: Griffin Rosé, Bedekovich Rosé EKO 2017 and Tomšić Evelin, 2021. After the official part, the presentation of the wines of Brdovita Hrvatska was led by the distinguished sommelier Mario Meštrović, who presented 5 pink wines colors of that region: Dvanajšćak Kozol rosé 2022; Winery Puhelek Rosé 2022; Griffin Ivančić Ambassador rosé 2022; Bedekovich Prigora rosé Eko 2021; Vinarija Miklažić Rosé 2021. The president of the association Bregovita Hrvatska, which includes the vineyards of Moslavina, Prigorje and Bilogora, Zagorje and Međimurja, Plešivice and Pokuplje, Josip Tržec, said on that occasion:
Behind the excellent wines of Bregovita Hrvatska are hardworking people, winemakers and their families. Many of them continue the long-standing family tradition, but at the same time explore new ways of modern winemaking. Bregovita Hrvatska offers a variety of wines for every taste and for every occasion. It is characterized by a colorful wealth of varieties, styles and shades of wine. At today’s workshop and at the Festival, it will be possible to taste selected rosé wines and sparkling wines from Bregovita Hrvatska.
The PINK DAY Zagreb celebration continues on Tuesday , April 18 , in the only restaurant in Zagreb with a Michelin star, Noel, where the Chateau d’Esclans rosé wine Masterclass ” Pinks That Made History ” powered by PBZ Card Premium Visa will be held and will be led by Ted Lelekas, Moet Hennessy brand ambassador. Tasting will be from top quality Riedel glasses. Then on April 20 , on the occasion of the jubilee, in the legendary Zagreb restaurant Skenderica 1912 by Catering Lisak – a festive “Dinner in Pink” will be heldwith selected wines from the Festival: Villa Sandi Prosecco DOC Rosé Millesimato, Rosé Bastiàn, Rizman Rusula and Aura liqueurs.
