Long associated with romance, rosé wine is the perfect choice for Valentine’s Day celebrations. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two, a Galentine’s gathering with friends, or a solo indulgence, pairing your meal with the right rosé can elevate the experience.
The Magic of Rosé Winemaking
Rosé is crafted using a unique winemaking process that gives it its iconic blush hue and diverse flavours. Unlike red wine where grape skins are left to ferment with the juice for an extended period, rosé involves a shorter maceration time—just long enough to extract a delicate pink colour and light tannins.
There are three main rosé winemaking techniques:
✔ The Maceration Method – The most common method, where red grapes are crushed and left to soak with their skins for a few hours before fermentation.
✔ The Saignée Method – A technique where winemakers "bleed off" some juice from red wine fermentation, resulting in a richer, deeper rosé.
✔ The Blending Method – Less common, this method involves mixing red and white wines to create a rosé (typically used in Champagne).
These different methods influence the taste, body, and acidity of the wine, making it more versatile when it comes to food pairings.
Best Rosé and Food Pairings for Valentine’s Day
1. Fresh Salads & Light Appetisers
A crisp, dry rosé pairs well with the flavours of a fresh salad, seafood ceviche, or goat cheese. The acidity of the wine balances out citrus dressings and creamy textures, creating a refreshing start to your meal.
Product Recommendation: B&G - Cotes De Provence - Tourmaline - 750ml
2. Spicy Dishes (Thai, Mexican, or Indonesian Cuisine)
If you’re serving something with a bit of heat, a rosé with a touch of sweetness can help mellow the spice while enhancing the dish’s aromatic flavors.
Recommended Pairing: A semi-dry rosé, such as a Grenache-based blend, complements spicy dishes beautifully.
Product Recommendation: Roche Mazet - Rosé - Cinsault Grenache - 750ml
3. Grilled Seafood
Rosé’s crisp acidity and fruitiness character make it a perfect match for seafood! Whether it’s grilled salmon, shrimp, or lobster, a well-balanced rosé adds freshness without overwhelming the dish.
Recommended Pairing: A Spanish rosado or a light-bodied Pinot Noir rosé.
Product Recommendation: Norton - Rosado de Malbec - 750ml
4. Charcuterie & Cheese Boards
A charcuterie board with soft cheeses, cured meats, and nuts pairs amazingly with rosé. The acidity cuts through the richness, while the fruity notes complement salty and umami flavours.
Recommended Pairing: A medium-bodied Italian Rosato for balance.
Product Recommendation: Rose Di Bacco - Lambrusco - Rosato - 750ml
How to Serve Rosé for the Best Experience
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Chill it properly: Serve rosé between 7°C and 13°C for optimal taste.
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Choose the right glass: A standard wine glass allows the aromas to open up.
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Experiment with cocktails: A rosé spritzer or ‘frosé’ makes for a Valentine's Day treat.
Rosé, Romance & Celebration
Whether you’re a long-time rosé lover or new to the world of winemaking, choosing the right bottle can make your Valentine’s Day extra special. With its diverse flavor profile, rosé is the go-to wine for Valentine’s Day, especially when shared with loved ones!
Browse our Rosé Collection and find the perfect bottle to toast to love and special moments here.
Related Article: An Essential Guide to Rosé
