Rosado, often known as Rosé in English, is a type of wine varietal that includes red-wine grape skins in its production, but not enough to qualify it as a full-fledged red wine. The result is a pinkish color, which can range from a pale, delicate blush to a vivid, near-red hue.
Rosado wines are usually characterized by their fresh, fruity flavors, and in terms of profile, they often hold a balance between the lightness of white wines and the heavier body of red wines. Common tasting notes may include strawberries, cherries, and raspberries, as well as floral, citrus, or melon undertones. Rosados can be made from a variety of grapes, including Pinot Noir, Grenache, Syrah, and Sangiovese.
The production method for Rosado wine can differ, but two conventional methods are skin contact (where red grape skins are allowed to ferment with the juice for a short time) and saignée or “bleeding” (where some juice is removed from red-wine must).
Rosado wines are primarily known for their versatility. They can be served chilled and paired with a range of cuisines - making them a popular choice for spring and summer. However, they are now increasingly being recognized as wines that can be enjoyed year-round.
