August 7, 2025 Plume Ridge Bottle Shop

Rosé: Why It’s More Than a Summer Drink

When you think of rosé wine, chances are you picture yourself lounging in the sun with a chilled glass in hand. And who could blame you? Rosé has earned its reputation as the go-to wine for summer picnics, beach days, and backyard BBQs. But here’s the thing, rosé is far more versatile than its “summer-only” label suggests. In fact, this pink-hued wine deserves a spot at your table all year long.

What Is Rosé, Really?

Rosé is made from red grapes, but unlike red wine, it spends less time fermenting with grape skins. This short contact gives it its signature blush color, ranging from pale salmon to vibrant pink. The result? A wine that often balances the freshness of white wine with the fruitiness of reds.

There are several ways to make rosé:

Direct Pressing: Grapes are gently pressed and removed from the skins quickly to preserve a light color.
Maceration: The skins remain in contact with the juice for a short period before being removed.
Saignée (“bleeding”): A portion of red wine is “bled off” early during fermentation to create rosé as a byproduct.

No matter the method, the result is a wine that can be dry or sweet, light or structured, and always worth exploring.

The Myths About Rosé

Rosé has long fought misconceptions. Many people still believe:

It’s always sweet (not true! Most quality rosés are dry)
It’s not “serious” wine
It’s only good for hot weather

But in recent years, rosé has experienced a renaissance. Winemakers around the world—especially in France, Spain, Italy, and the U.S.—are crafting elegant, complex rosés that stand up to food, seasons, and scrutiny.

Rosé by the Seasons

Spring
Rosé is a natural match for spring. Its bright acidity and floral notes complement dishes like asparagus risotto, herbed goat cheese, and grilled salmon. Look for a Provence-style rosé with a dry finish and citrusy lift.

Summer
Of course, rosé shines in the heat. Pair it with watermelon and feta salad, grilled shrimp tacos, or even a simple charcuterie board. Bonus points for canned or boxed rosés at the beach or park!

Fall
Here’s where things get interesting. Rosé can easily transition into fall with deeper, more robust versions, like those made from Grenache or Syrah. These wines offer more body and spice, perfect with roasted poultry, butternut squash, or creamy mushroom dishes.

Winter
Rosé in winter? Absolutely. Sparkling rosé adds festive cheer to holiday gatherings. A bolder, darker-hued rosé pairs well with baked ham, roasted root vegetables, or even mild curries. The crispness of rosé helps cut through richer, comfort-driven meals.

Rosé Styles You Should Try

Provence Rosé (France)
Light, dry, and elegant with flavors of strawberry, citrus, and herbs. A classic.
Tavel (France)
Deeper in color and body—almost like a red wine disguised as a rosé. Great for fall and winter.
Spanish Rosado
Often made from Tempranillo or Garnacha. Fruity and bold, with great value options.
Italian Rosato
Made all over Italy with local grapes. Styles vary from crisp to round and juicy.
California Rosé
From Pinot Noir to Zinfandel, California winemakers are crafting fun, fruit-forward bottles.
Sparkling Rosé
Made everywhere from Champagne to Oregon to Tasmania. Bubbly, beautiful, and perfect for celebrations or brunch.

Food Pairing with Rosé

The versatility of rosé really shines brightest at the table. Depending on the style, we recommend pairing rosé with:

Grilled seafood
Sushi and poke bowls
Mediterranean salads
BBQ ribs or pulled pork
Roasted vegetables
Spicy dishes (think Thai or Indian)
Cheese boards with brie, chèvre, or gouda

Sparkling rosé? Try it with fried chicken. You won’t regret it.

A Bottle for Everyone

One of the best things about rosé is that there’s a bottle for every taste and budget. Whether you prefer bone-dry and mineral, lush and fruity, or something sparkling and celebratory, you’ll find a rosé that fits the bill.

Plus, most rosé is meant to be enjoyed young and fresh so you don’t have to worry about aging or decanting. Just chill, pop, and pour.

Contributed by Ray Ibanez, E-Commerce Manager for Plume Ridge Bottle Shop.