STOP AND SMELL THE ROSÉS
It might be the oldest style of wine, but rosé is made to be bought and drunk young – as in right now! And if you’ve been judging the pinks according to the “too sweet” stereotype, you might want to consider an information update.
Yes, they’re fruity (think strawberries, raspberries, cherries, peaches) but they’re are also crisp, dry and refreshing – the perfect match for salads, seafood and other hot-weather fare.
Plus, those beautiful blush colours make every meal feel south-of-France festive. There’s always a good reason for a global renaissance. Read on to find out more.
VILLIERA PINOT NOIR ROSÉ 2015
Villiera in Stellenbosch is a true family farm: Jeff Grier makes the wine, his sister Cathy Brewer sells it and his cousin Simon Grier grows the grapes.
You’ll love … the onion-skin colour, red berry fragrance, spicy hints and elegant palate.
Match with … strawberries and cream, canapés and pastries.
Woolworths price: R59.95
If you like this, try: De Morgenzon Garden Vineyards Rosé 2015 (cellar price R60)
DELHEIM PINOTAGE-SHIRAZ ROSÉ 2015
Delheim, the Sperling family farm, has been making wine for almost 60 years.
You’ll love … the bright salmon colour. The 60% Pinotage gives redcurrant and cranberry flavours and combines well with the spicy notes and darker fruit of the Shiraz.
Match with … Delheim’s Wild Mushroom Hunt Weekends in season are a great attraction and they suggest matching their rosé with mushrooms simmered in garlic.
Woolworths price: R49.95
If you like this, try: Ken Forrester Petit Rosé 2015 (cellar price R45)
LAIBACH THE LADYBIRD ORGANIC ROSÉ 2015
Ladybirds combat the mealy bug vineyard pest and also give their name to an organic range of wines from Laibach, where cellarmaster François van Zyl and viticulturist Michael Malherbe have worked together for more than 15 years.
You’ll love … the juicy flavours of raspberry, strawberry and cranberry.
Match with … free-range roast chicken with sweet potato and freshly picked garden vegetables.
Woolworths price: R54.95
If you like this, try: Waverley Hills Rosé (cellar price R55)
DOMAINE GRIER FRENCH ROSÉ 2014
In 2006, the Grier family bought a farm in the Roussillon region in the south of France where they produce Champagne-method sparkling wine, whites, reds, and this charming rosé.
You’ll love … the nose of wild forest berries, herbal notes and a mouthwateringly dry palate.
Match with … bouillabaise or ratatouille.
Woolworths price: R64.95
If you like this, try: Tamboerskloof Katharien Syrah Rosé 2015 (cellar price R76)
WOOLWORTHS NATURAL SWEET ROSÉ 2015 (SPIER)
Spier outside Stellenbosch is renowned for its careful selection of grapes from the many vineyards it has access to, as well as its talented team of winemakers.
You’ll love … the sunset pink in your glass. The wine has a luscious, well-rounded sweetness with ripe red plum and cherry, as well as fresh acidity to ensure balance.
Match with … A bonfire, good friends and sunset. On the fire: pork sausages, marshmallows on sticks.
Woolworths price: R39.95
If you like this, try: Rooiberg Natural Sweet Rosé 2015 (cellar price R32.50)
PIERRE JOURDAN TRANQUILLE BLUSH NV
At Haute Cabrière on the Franschhoek pass, the VonArnim family produces a popular range of Méthode Cap Classiques and still wines from Pinot Noir and Pinot Noir-Chardonnay blends.
You’ll love … The red berry fruit and structure from the 60% Pinot Noir, combining perfectly with the citrus elegance of the Chardonnay. Low alcohol, fragrant, pleasingly drinkable.
Match with … a cold alfresco lunch on a blisteringly hot day. Serve well chilled, of course.
Woolworths price: R59.95
If you like this, try: Rustenberg Stellenbosch Rosé 2015 (cellar price R75)
MULDERBOSCH CABERNET SAUVIGNON ROSÉ 2014
Mulderbosch Vineyards in Stellenbosch was founded in 1989 with the legendary Mike Dobrovic as winemaker.
In 2011 it was bought by Californian Charles Banks, who upgraded the vineyards and cellar and put together his dream wine team, including winemaker Adam Mason.
You’ll love … the pink colour with a deep cherry hue. A vibrant bouquet bursts with bright red berries and a stimulating savoury note from the Cabernet Sauvignon.
Match with … gourmet pizzas on Mulderbosch’s verandah. Or try it with poached salmon with a citrus salsa verde.
Woolworths price: R59.95
If you like this, try: Delaire Graff Cabernet Franc Rosé 2015 (cellar price R85)
WATERFORD ROSE-MARY ROSE 2015
The innovative team at Stellenbosch winery Waterford Estate has put together a Mediterranean-style rosé from Shiraz, Merlot, Tempranillo,Sangiovese and Malbec.
Gentle handling of the grapesin the vineyard and cellar ensures crisp elegance. You’ll love … the glittering copper colour and aromas of wild strawberry and raspberry. The low alcohol, graceful fruit and piquant acidity demands a second glass.
Match with … freshly shucked oysters, smoked salmon, tuna carpaccio, grilled prawns and asparagus spears.
Woolworths price: R79.95
If you like this try: Warwick The Pink Lady Rosé 2015 (cellar price R80)
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