Rosé wine, with its ripe fruit flavors, food-friendly acidity, and enchanting color, has won the hearts of many. But have you ever wondered about the secret behind its captivating pink hue? It’s not as simple as mixing red and white wines. In fact, the process is a fascinating journey of precision and patience.

Unveiling the Pink in Rosé Wine

Rosé is often perceived as a midpoint between red and white wines, but this description pertains more to the intensity of the wine rather than its production method. Contrary to what one might assume, rosés are made entirely from red grapes. Popular choices include Pinot Noir, Grenache, and Syrah. The key to the transformation from red to rosé lies in the grape skins.

The journey of a rosé begins with the pressing of grapes to release their juices. For red and rosé wines, the grape skins and juices are allowed to mingle in a process known as maceration. This interaction allows the grape juice to extract color and tannins from the grape skin. However, the duration of this process differs significantly between red and rosé wines. While red wine maceration can last from three days to even a hundred, rosé wine’s maceration period is considerably shorter, often just a few hours. This brief encounter results in the skins releasing only some of their pigmentation and tannins, giving birth to a lightly structured wine.

Rosé wines are distinct from blush wines, which are created by combining red and white wines post-fermentation. An exception to this rule is rosé Champagne, which can be produced by adding still red wine to sparkling wine after the fermentation process.

The variation in color among rosés is primarily due to the production method and grape variety. Regardless of the color, rosés’ light structure and refreshing flavor make them an ideal companion for summery meals. They possess enough complexity to complement some spice, yet are subtle enough not to overpower delicate seafood.

So, next time you pour yourself a glass of rosé, take a moment to appreciate the intricate process that gives it its unique charm. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a blended rosé from Blue Apron? After all, there’s always more to discover in the world of wine.