At the most recent of the WineFolio ‘Top 10 Tasting’ events (https://winefolio.co.nz/?p=10236) it was noted by judges that “there were a couple where the wines were more distinctly varietal than a customer might expect in a rosé – tasting more like ‘a pink Sauvignon Blanc’, for example”.
As such, I welcome the labelling on this new wine sent over for tasting – as ‘Sauvignon Rosé”. I do think that it is reasonable for a customer to know what to expect. Like the labelling on the back of riesling wines that indicate on a scale the sweetness level – from dry through medium to sweet – it simply aids the consumer to find a wine that fits their preference. There will undoubtedly be people who do NOT want a rosé that has a definable taste of Sauvignon Blanc – but there will equally be a legion of fans, who would absolutely welcome it.
So, we have a Rosé made with Sauvignon Blanc and Malbec grapes. The colour is an appealing soft coral pink. Quite aromatic – plenty to get into on the nose. Pomelo, passionfruit, watermelon, raspberry, gooseberry, lime and pear blend in the perfume. Dry, but with a ripe fruitiness bolstered by tart acidity. There is both red spice and a green bitterness amongst the fruit that is refreshing and piquant. Savoury and mineral rather than sweet and soft – no ‘strawberries and cream’ styling here. Although varietally-specific with the Sauvignon Blanc, it is a complex and quite serious expression of rosé. 89pts
