Despite its increase in popularity, there are still a few hard-to-shake myths out there about rosé wine. We’re here to debunk those myths, and to open your eyes to the magic that is rosé wine.
Myth: Rosé wine is a blend of red and white
Busted: This is one of the most widespread myths about rosé wine, but it’s just not true! Rosé wine is made from red grapes, and the pinky colour actually comes from ‘skin contact’ - a method called "Saignee". This is when the grapes are crushed and the juice is left to sit on the skins, where it naturally absorbs the colouring. The shorter the juice is left to rest, the less colour it will absorb and the lighter the wine will be.
Fact: In France, it is strictly prohibited to mix red wine with white wine (except in Champagne)
Myth: Colour shows sweetness
Busted: It is a common misconception that sweetness can be determined by looking at the colour of the rosé, with brighter, deeper colour being associated with sweeter wine. In some cases, this might be true, but it is not a rule. It’s just a coincidence that bargain-bucket rosé wines that are deep pink in colour happen to be very sweet!
In reality, colour has nothing to do with the sweetness of the wine. The sweetness actually comes from residual sugar.
Myth: Rosé wine is not meant to age
Busted: This one makes sense, as we all know rosé wine is celebrated for its youth and ready-to-drink qualities. Many believe that rosé should be drunk as quickly as possible, to ensure you enjoy the wine whilst it is still retaining its energy and freshness.
This isn’t bad advice, but there are actually some rosé wines out there that have been made to stand the test of time. That being said, you can’t age any old rosé.
If you are looking for a rosé to keep safe in your cellar, you will probably want to find one that has already been aged in oak barrels.
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