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The Blushing History of Rosé Wine

Rosé wine, with its enchanting hues ranging from the palest pink to vibrant coral, has been a symbol of elegance, summertime, and joie de vivre. But the journey of rosé is as rich and varied as its delightful palette. Let’s embark on a voyage through time to trace the roots of this beloved wine.

In the Beginning

The history of rosé wine is as old as the history of wine itself. Believe it or not, most of the earliest wines resembled rosé, being somewhat pale in color since they had minimal contact with grape skins. These wines were produced in ancient Greece and Rome, regions that laid the groundwork for the wine production we know today.

The Middle Ages: Rosé Finds a Home in Provence

The Middle Ages marked a pivotal point for rosé wine. As winemaking techniques evolved, so did the popularity of rosé, especially in the Provence region of France. The area became synonymous with rosé wine, largely owing to the influence of the Greeks who brought the vineyards to the region. Provence has held the title of rosé capital of the world since then, offering wines with distinctive pale pink hues and crisp, dry profiles.

The 18th Century: The Rosé of Bordeaux

During the 18th century, Bordeaux became a significant hub for rosé production, exporting clarets – a name given to the dark rosé wines produced in the region. These were much loved by the English and became a staple in many cellars across the country.

The 20th Century: A Shift in Preference

The 20th century saw a significant shift in rosé production and consumption. As red wines began to dominate the market, the production of rosé wines took a backseat. However, this period also saw the emergence of sweeter rosé varieties, such as White Zinfandel, a sweeter rosé that captured the American market and resurrected the popularity of rosé wines.

The Rosé Renaissance

The 21st century brought a rosé renaissance, with a global resurgence in its popularity. The wine, once associated mainly with summertime, began to be enjoyed year-round. Dry rosés, particularly from regions like Provence, began to be appreciated once more for their complexity and versatility, particularly in food pairings.

Rosé at Veramar Vineyard

At Veramar Vineyard, we are proud to be part of this long-standing tradition of rosé wine production. Our selection is crafted to mirror the elegance and finesse that a good rosé embodies. We invite you to explore the depth and breadth of flavors offered in our carefully crafted rosé wines, each bottle telling a story of centuries-old tradition married with modern winemaking techniques.

Conclusion

As we raise a toast to the rich history of rosé, we appreciate not just a wine, but a testament to the ever-evolving journey of winemaking, a journey marked by passion, tradition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. So, the next time you pour yourself a glass of rosé, remember, you’re not just sipping a wine, you’re sipping history.