Best Pinot Noir Rose to Try: Recommendations from Around the World

If you are a Rose wine follower or a seasonal fan, this blog post will talk about all you need to know about this pink colour wine!

Rose wines have gained immense popularity in recent years with their delicate flavours, vibrant hues and refreshing character. Among the diverse range of Rose wines, Pinot Noir Rose stands out for its elegance and versatility. We will explore the history, different production methods and styles of Pinot Noir Rose from renowned regions.

Tracing the Evolution of Rose Wine 

The ancient Greeks were among the first to produce Rose wines. Drinking diluted wine was considered civilized back in those days as no one wanted to be seen as drunk.
Hence, ROSE WINE WAS BORN!

However, it was the Romans who spread the practice of making Rose wines throughout the Mediterranean region. Not until the 6th century BC, the Phocaeans brought grape vines to Massalia in the south of France and the pink rose blend started being popular in the Mediterranean.

For a long period in modern days, this pale pink wine was seen as amateurs drink. Sommeliers or high-end restaurants in America would refuse to list them. Fast forward to the late 2000s, hotels and resorts started importing Provence Rose, and the general public started changing their perspective about it.

Interesting fact!
It is hard to define the exact origin date of the born of Rose wine as many red wines were having the same colour as today’s Rose!

Decoding the Rose Production Methods

Rose wines are typically made from red grapes, including Pinot Noir, with 3 major production methods.

1. Maceration method: Grape skins remain in contact with the juice for a few hours to days. Depending on the length of the skin contact, the wine will be infused with a pale to deep pink colour.
2. Saignee (pronounced as “san-yay”) method: Some juice is bled off from the red wine fermentation process. The pink-coloured juice will be created into Rose wine.
3. Direct pressing: Whole bunch of grapes is pressed directly, the juice will run off quickly and be pigmented by the skin colour. 

Interesting fact!
The 4th method – Blending. It combines red and white wines to achieve the desired colour and flavour profile. This method is mostly used outside European regions, except for Rose Champagne!

Pinot Noir Rose – From Still to Sparkling

Pinot Noir is one of the most lovable grape varietals among most of us. It produces some of the most premium and age-worthy red wine in the world. Yet, it also comes in a range of styles, including still and sparkling Rose. 

Still Pinot Noir Roses are layered with delicate aromas of red berries, citrus notes and crisp acidity. This style of wine is perfect for leisurely sipping on warm summer days or pairing with poultry dishes, lobster, seafood and grilled vegetables. 

On the other hand, sparkling Pinot Noir Rose, such as those from Champagne and the UK offer a touch of effervescence, adding an extra layer of elegance to its profile.

Interesting fact!
“The paler the Rose, the drier it is” is a common impression. However, the colour of Rose wine actually depends on the production method and length of skin contact. Some deeper coloured Roses can also be dry with layers of flavours! 

The World’s Famous Regions

Champagne, France

Whether it is a Blanc de Noir (100% made with Pinot Noir) or a blend (usually blended with Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier), the region produces an exceptional sparkling version of Pinot Noir. The chalky soil of the region, combined with the traditional Champagne production methods, results in wines with unparalleled complexity and finesse. Rose Champagnes offer vibrant red fruit flavours, hints of brioche, and a fine mousse on the palate. With ageing, they will improve with tertiary notes like earthiness or mushrooms, just like the Burgundian red wines! Rose Champagnes  are perfect for celebrating special occasions or indulging in moments of pure luxury.

Sussex, United Kingdom 

The UK has emerged as a promising region for producing exceptional Sparkling Rose. Particularly in southern England, the cool climate allows for slow ripening and optimal flavour development. English Still Roses are often crafted from Pinot Noir, showcasing enticing strawberry and raspberry flavours, and delicate floral notes, along with racy acidity and a refreshing finish.

Loire Valley, France

In the midsection of the Loire Valley, Touraine-Noble-Joue is a small region only producing Rose wine from Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Gris. In Sancerre, Rose wines are solely made from Pinot Noir. The style is usually dry, full of fresh red fruits and a backbone of minerality They pair beautifully with grilled shellfish to creamy cheeses, or simply as an aperitif by itself.

Burgundy, France

Burgundy, a revered wine region in France, is well-known for its exceptional Pinot Noir wines, both red and rose. Marsannay is the only sub-region in Burgundy that makes still Rose wine. Mostly grown in clay soils, the Pinot Noir is typically light-bodied with delicate flavours and aromas of strawberries and raspberries. With high-quality fruits, Burgundy Rose tends to have a concentrated palate and sometimes deep in colour. It can easily be swapped with red wine on warmer summer days.

Oregon, United States

In Willamette Valley, the Rose wines carry the region’s cool-climate characters, resulting in a very delicate red fruit profile, stone fruit notes, bone-dry texture and brisk acidity. They are best to enjoy within a year or two when it is fresh and young.

This summer, cheers to Pinot Noir Rose!

From the UK to Champagne, and the Loire Valley to Oregon, these renowned regions showcase their unique approaches to crafting exceptional Pinot Noir Roses. Whether you prefer still or sparkling, there is one for your palate. If you are a Pinot Noir follower, why not discover different expressions of Rose made by Pinot Noir from around the world?

This Blog post is written by Sharon Wong
Consumer Sales and Marketing Manager of Wanderlust Wine 

Sharon is the the driving force behind our website, wine club, marketing activities, and Wanderlust Wine events. 

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