Rosé, the summer essential

Summer is synonymous with sun, vacations, and convivial moments. It's also the perfect season to enjoy a good rosé wine . Having become essential, rosé seduces with its freshness and lightness.

Let's explore together the reasons for its popularity, the method of production of rosé wine and some recommendations for good rosé wines to enhance your summer days.

What is rosé wine?

THE rosé wine is a wine distinguished by its pink color, which can vary from very pale to very intense. This unique hue is achieved through a specific winemaking process, distinct from that of red and white wines. Rosé is not simply a blend of red and white wine, as some might think.

The production of rosé wine

There production of rosé wine is based on a delicate process that involves controlled maceration of black grapes. Here are the main stages in the production of rosé wine from Languedoc :

1. The harvest

The first step is harvesting the grapes. Rosé wine producers generally use specific grape varieties such as Grenache , the Cinsault , the Mourvèdre or even the syrah . Harvesting can be manual or mechanical, depending on the region and the type of rosé wine to be produced.

2. Maceration

After harvesting, the grapes are destemmed and put into vats for Maceration . It is during this stage that the grape skins, rich in pigments, will color the juice. The maceration time is crucial: it can vary from a few hours to a few days. The shorter the maceration, the clearer the rosé wine will be.

3. Pressing

Once maceration is complete, the grapes are pressed to extract the juice. This juice, which has taken on a pinkish tint, is then fermented. fermentation Rosé wine is generally made at low temperature to preserve the fruity and fresh aromas.

4. Aging and bottling

After fermentation , the rosé wine can be aged in stainless steel vats or oak barrels, depending on the style desired by the winemaker. usually lasts a few months. Finally, the wine is filtered and bottled, ready to be enjoyed.

Why is rosé wine so popular in summer?

Rosé wine has grown in popularity in recent years, especially during the summer months. There are several reasons for this craze.

Freshness and lightness

Rosé is appreciated for its freshness and lightness, making it a perfect drink for hot days. Served chilled , between 8 and 12°C, it quenches thirst and adds a refreshing touch.

Friendliness

Rosé is often associated with moments of sharing and conviviality. Whether at a barbecue with friends, a picnic, or an evening on the terrace, it lends itself to all occasions. versatility allows it to pair with a wide variety of dishes, from salads to grilled meats and seafood.

The diversity of styles

There is a great diversity of styles of rosé wines , from the driest to the fruitiest, including more structured versions. This variety allows everyone to find a rosé to their taste. Lovers of good rosé wines can thus explore different wine-growing regions and discover unique aromatic nuances.