Rosé wine often confuses newcomers with its distinctive pink hue. A common misconception is that rosé is simply a mix of red and white wine. While there are exceptions where blending occurs, this is not how most rosé wines are made. Let’s dive into what rosé wine really is, how it’s produced, and explore the rare instances where blending red and white wines is part of the process.

What is rosé wine?

Rosé is a type of wine that gets its pink color from limited contact with grape skins during fermentation. Unlike red wine, where the juice ferments with the grape skins for an extended period, rosé wine is typically left in contact with the skins for just a few hours to a couple of days. This brief interaction gives rosé its characteristic color and lighter flavor profile.

Rosé can range in color from pale salmon to vibrant pink, depending on the grape variety and the duration of skin contact. It is typically crisp and fruity, with flavor notes that might include strawberry, citrus, or melon.

Why rosé is not a simple mix of red and white wine

While blending red and white wine to create rosé is technically possible, it is rarely practiced in quality winemaking. In fact, in many wine-producing regions, including the European Union, blending red and white wine to make rosé is often prohibited, except for certain styles like Champagne Rosé.

The traditional method of making rosé is far more nuanced and rooted in careful winemaking techniques. The brief skin contact method highlights the delicate balance of flavors, acidity, and aromas that define rosé. This process allows winemakers to craft a wine that is light and refreshing, yet complex in its own way.

Are there rosé wines made from a mix of red and white grapes?

Yes, there are rosé wines that involve mixing, but this practice is not the norm for still rosé wines. In some cases, winemakers may blend small amounts of red wine into a white wine base to achieve the desired color and flavor profile. This method is more common in sparkling rosé wines, such as Champagne Rosé.

For example, Champagne Rosé is often made by blending still red Pinot Noir wine into a base of white Champagne. This method creates a vibrant, bubbly wine with notes of red fruit and a distinctive pink hue.

However, for still rosé wines, the blending method is generally avoided in favor of traditional winemaking approaches, such as direct pressing or saignée.

Types of Champagne: Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs

While discussing Champagne, it’s worth highlighting two notable types that demonstrate the versatility of sparkling wine: Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs.

• Blanc de Blancs is made exclusively from white grape varieties, primarily Chardonnay. These Champagnes are known for their elegance, crisp acidity, and delicate flavors of green apple, citrus, and floral notes.

• Blanc de Noirs, on the other hand, is crafted from black grape varieties like Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Despite being made from dark-skinned grapes, the juice is pressed gently to avoid extracting color from the skins. Blanc de Noirs tend to have a richer, fuller body with flavors of red berries, brioche, and nuts.

Both styles showcase the artistry of Champagne production and pair beautifully with a range of dishes, from seafood to richer appetizers.

How is rosé wine typically made?

There are three main methods used to produce rosé:

1. Direct pressing
   In this method, red grapes are gently pressed, and the juice is immediately separated from the skins. The result is a pale rosé with delicate flavors.

2. Maceration (skin contact)
   This is the most common method for making rosé. Red grape juice ferments with the grape skins for a short time (hours or days) to extract the desired level of color and flavor before the skins are removed.

3. Saignée (bleeding)
   In this method, a portion of juice is "bled off" during the early stages of red wine fermentation. This technique is often used to concentrate red wine but also produces a deeply colored rosé as a byproduct.

The bottom line

While blending red and white wine to create rosé is possible and practiced in specific styles like sparkling rosé, it’s not how most rosé wines are made. The majority of rosé wines are crafted using traditional winemaking techniques that involve minimal skin contact with red grapes. This process is what gives rosé its iconic pink color and refreshing flavor.

At Swirl, we celebrate the unique qualities of every wine. Whether you’re enjoying a Provence rosé made with Grenache and Cinsault or a sparkling Champagne Rosé, understanding how it’s made enhances your appreciation. Use the Swirl app to explore rosé wines, learn about winemaking techniques, and find the perfect bottle tailored to your taste.