Rosé wine has a long and rich history, with its origins dating back to ancient Greece. This popular wine is made using a variety of grape types and is enjoyed by wine lovers all over the world. However, in recent years, there has been controversy surrounding the colour of rosé wine, as some winemakers have started producing a pale pink colour, which has become more popular with consumers. In this article, we’ll explore the controversy surrounding the colour of rosé wine and learn about natural options.
The Color Controversy
Many leading sommeliers and wine experts claim that modern winemakers are looking to produce rosé wine of pale pink colour, which is more popular with consumers. However, the colour of rosé wine has become a subject of controversy as producers are allowed to use colourants that change the appearance of the wine, sometimes with an effect on the taste of the wine itself. This is why some wine experts prefer natural rosé wine, which is made without the use of any colourants or additives.
Natural Rosé Wine
If you’re looking for a natural rosé wine, you can find an example of a slightly darker rosé, a naturally made wine from the south of France. No colourant additives are used whatsoever to create this wine. You can also find natural rosé wine from Northern Italy, which does have a pale pink colour. Again, without the usage of any additives at all.
Grape Varieties Used for Rosé Wine
The grape varieties mainly used for rosé are Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah (shiraz), Cinsault, Carignan, Grenache, and Mourvedre. In some areas, Merlot is also used to create natural rosé wine. Sparkling rosé wines such as champagne are made using a blend of white and red varieties such as Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. In Italy, Pinot Grigio is used to make some rosé wine.
When it comes to the taste of rosé wine, it can vary widely depending on the grape varieties used, as well as the production methods used. Some rosé wines can be quite sweet, while others are quite dry. It’s important to taste a variety of different rosé wines to find the one that suits your palate.
Final Thoughts
Rosé wine is a popular and versatile wine enjoyed by wine lovers worldwide. While the controversy surrounding the colour of rosé wine continues, there are natural options available for those who prefer a wine made without the use of colourants or additives. With various grape types and production methods used, there’s a rosé wine out there for everyone to enjoy. So why not explore the world of rosé wine and discover your new favourite?
