La Vie en Rose
Seven top rosé wines
Rosé wine is a popular tipple – especially during the summer months. Luckily, there are plenty of varieties to choose from. We’ve put together a list of seven incredible wines that we think you’re going to enjoy! Best served chilled on the veranda, in the garden or by the sea, rosé wine is seriously trending right now. Did you know that pink wine is simply a fruity take on red wine without the tannins or the deep colour? There’s no better way to soak up those carefree summer vibes. Try it as an aperitif or pair it with light bites featuring tomatoes or melons. Or maybe even serve it up with fish dishes or barbecue feasts. The main thing is that you get the quality of your pink drink just right. A good rosé is dry, fruity, fresh, light, subtle and not overly complex.
There are a few different ways to make rosé wine, including direct pressing. This method does what it says on the tin, with the red wine grapes being pressed directly to avoid contact between the juice and skins. Another option is limited skin maceration, which involves the grape juice being left in contact with the skins for a set amount of time (usually just a matter of hours). The longer the maceration, the darker and more richly flavoured the wine will be.
There are plenty of rosé varieties to choose from. As is often the case with wine, it all comes down to personal preference. What you like and what you don’t like. Here’s our selection of seven wines from four countries that are best enjoyed on a carefree summer’s day.
Clarette Rosé Cuvée Weingut Knipser, Palatinate Germany – 2019
This German winegrower specialises in all things rosé. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes, this scintillating example of elegance has a beautiful aroma and delicious, well-balanced aftertaste. CHF 17.50 – rieslingco.ch
Domaine de L’Ile Rosé, Domaine de L’Ile France – 2019
Provence in the south of France is the rosé wine paradise par excellence. This moderate organic wine with fresh, fruity notes is made from the region’s main grape varieties (think Grenache, Syrah, Cinsaut and Mourvèdre) and goes beautifully with fish dishes. CHF 18.20 – arvi.ch
Château la Verrerie, Luberon France – 2019
Straight from the south of France, this rosé is a firm favourite. This organic, medium-bodied wine made by pressing Grenache and Cinsaut grapes is light salmon pink in colour with complex aromas, punchy acidity and sweet fruity notes. CHF 17.50 – Jeroboam.ch
A’Toscana Rosato Aldobrandesca, Tuscany Italy – 2019
This well-balanced, elegant wine is ideal for summer thanks to its beautifully complex aromas. It is fruity, fresh, lush, rich and finely structured. It is made entirely using the Aleatico grape grown locally. CHF 36 – bindella.ch
Rosato Conte Lemar Tenute Gregu, Sardinia Italy – 2019
This Italian wine made from Cannonau and Vermentino grapes is full-bodied, dense, fresh and lingering with a complex bouquet that packs a peppery punch. Beautifully versatile. CHF 24 – vergani.ch
Chiaretto Riviera del Garda Comincioli, Lombardy Italy – 2019
This bright pink wine is clean, fruity, fabulously fresh, rich and lingering. Made by pressing Groppello, Barbera, Sangiovese and Marzemino grapes. CHF 24.90 – caratello.ch
Weissherbst, Weingut Broger Thurgau Switzerland – 2020
Michael Broger produces pure, simple and elegant wines, as this Pinot Noir variety proves with its light salmon pink colour, crisp acidity and lingering aftertaste. Deliciously thirst-quenching. CHF 19 – broger-weinbau.ch
Words Peter Keller
Related Stories
Pleasure without any regret: Nowadays, drinking non-alcoholic drinks is considered good form and is no longer frowned upon. Even in renowned gourmet restaurants, a suitable alternative to wine is a natural pairing for a multi-course meal. Not having anything to offer here will lose guests – and turnover.
Discover more
In the watchmaking town of Biel, Michael Bach produces knives that are as flawless and precise as a luxury watch. The S in the name sknife is no coincidence. Read on to find out more about steel, wood and emotions.
Discover more
A real revelation. From the outside, it looks very much like an ordinary beetroot. But once cut open, the Chioggia beetroot springs a surprise with its characteristic pattern - hypnotic pink rings. Hailing from the wild beet family, and later sugar beet, this is a traditional original variety that has been cultivated in the small fishing village of Chioggia near Venice since the 16th century.
Discover more
Wine consumption is declining. Customers are increasingly requesting non-alcoholic drinks. The industry is also undergoing rapid development. Wine expert Peter Keller sheds light on the unstoppable trend, describes the innovations and explains why the catering trade needs to have non-alcoholic products.
Discover more
In collaboration with top chef Heiko Nieder, Nespresso presents an exclusive coffee co-creation: Zurich Lungo. The limited edition is an homage to Zurich and its vibrant coffee culture.
Discover more
With a stunning rooftop terrace offering breathtaking views of the lake, an impressive wine list and an elegant, minimalist interior, the Izumi has everything for the international jet set.
Discover more
Chardonnay accounts for 31% of all grapes in Champagne and it grows particularly well on its chalky terroir. It is championed for elegant, fragrant wines bursting with floral, citrus and tasty mineral notes.
Discover more