Surely nothing could be better than the pretty pink mousse and tingling tang of a rosé bubbly. Here are three brand-new releases that will tickle the tiredest of taste buds.
GRAHAM BECK BRUT ROSÉ NON-VINTAGE
The delightful pale silver-pink label livery is perfectly matched to the finely flirtatious bubbly in the bottle.
Lighter than the Graham Beck Vintage Rosé this blend of Chardonnay (53%) and Pinot Noir (47%) has a bright nose of red cherry and raspberry with some yeastiness and hints of minerality.
The winemaker, Pieter "Bubbles" Ferreira says the palate is brisk with "hints of oyster shell and fresh lavender". It certainly makes the perfect accompaniment to a plate of freshly shucked oysters on a beach at sunset.
SILVERTHORN GENIE ROSÉ BRUT 2007
John Loubser reveals his romantic streak both in the name and the inviting quality of this charming pink bubbly. In Arabian folklore, Genies were mischievous free willed spirits, capable of both good and evil and trapped in oil lamps.
Once freed they were capable of granting their liberator three wishes. Perhaps only a Genie would have thought of producing such a stunning rose´ from Shiraz as John has from his small farm in Robertson.
With the gentlest of handling John has conjured up an unconventional sparkler that marries elegance with richness of red berry fruit and an intriguing spiciness. If you come across a Genie one of your wishes could well be to share a bottle of this with lightly spiced lobster tails on a special occasion with your loved one.
(TO LOCATE IT CONTACT JOHN ON 0828910461)
PONGRACZ BRUT ROSÉ NON-VINTAGE
The hugely popular Pongracz Brut has been given a partner, and a very pretty one at that. The Hungarian nobleman and highly-respected South African viticulturist, Desiderius Pongracz, after whom the wines are named, would be very proud of this handsome couple.
A salmon blush colour emanates from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the former contributing ripe black berry fruit and structure while the latter brings a fresh cleanness and lemon citrus tones to the marriage.
Elunda Basson, the winemaker, remarks on: "a pleasing palate and persistent bead leaving a lingering aftertaste urging for the next sip". It's toastiness and full fruit make it a great partner to al fresco dishes of chicken or duck.
READ MORE:
How to pair food and wine
Love your rose - the rose story plus Allan Mullin's top picks