Once upon a time, rose was considered a casual, summer wine. With its fruity, fresh flavours and girly charm, a pink to sink on holiday or chuck in an ice-bucket against the backdrop of a brilliant blue sky, under the shadows of an oversized umbrella. Today, premium rose wines (in particular those from Provence) are so on-trend and highly sought after, they're not only the shade of the season, but a strong seller all year round. Here's our top choices.
1. Mirabeau Classic Cotes de Provence Rose 2017, France (£10.99, WaitroseCellar.com)
Alternatively, try their Classic in standard size, which is equally inviting with its vivid aromas, deep strawberry and raspberry flavours and mouthwatering acidity. Gorgeous on its own or with salads and seafood.
2. AIX Rose 2017 Coteaux d'Aix en Provence Magnum, France (£26.99, Majestic)
Majestic are also channelling the magnum trend by offering this stand-out label in larger format only, and who would argue with that? Set to fly off the shelves, the blossomy aromas, refreshing notes of watermelon, strawberries and florals with depth of flavour and a long, generous finish, will make any party buzz, especially if you start serving lobster salad too.
3. Taste the Difference Cotes de Provence Rose 2017, France (currently reduced to £7.75 from £9, Sainsbury's)
Far more modest and a brilliant buy while on special offer (until mid-June), the Provencal corset-shaped bottle immediately conjures up thoughts of the sunny Cote d'Azur, with the warm air infused with scents of pine needles and bougainvillea and dinner on the terrace. No matter if you can't be there for real, enjoy the freshly crushed berry aromas and fresh, pure finish with a plate of charcuterie.
4. Berry Bros & Rudd Provence Rose by Chateau la Mascaronne 2017, France (£12.95, Berry Bros & Rudd; available from early June)
Another keenly priced own-label wine and deliciousness in a glass, what's not to love about Berry's floral and vibrant rose? With juicy red berry fruits, an attractive citrusy, spicy note adding interest and lovely fresh acidity, this is sure to dispel any thoughts that pinks are only for picnics.
5. The Palm By Whispering Angel 2017, France (£14.95, FromVineyardsDirect.com)
Who wouldn't want an endless, secret supply of the artfully named Whispering Angel? It's one of four ravishing roses from Sacha Lichine, proprietor of Chateau d'Esclans, who have set the benchmark for seriously stylish rose. And whether the name is inspired by Palm Springs or Palm Beach, you don't need to have just moored a yacht where palm trees are an everyday sight to enjoy this new arrival. Fresh, dry and elegant, with subtle fruity notes and exceptional length, it will taste just as delightful with or without a glimmer of sunshine.
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