Best rosé wine: must try bottles in 2025

10 recommended rosé wines to savor in 2025

Looking for the best rated rosé wines this year? This article  highlights the top-reviewed bottles, based on expert scores and consumer ratings.

What is a rosé wine and how is it made?

When people think of rosé wine, they often assume it’s just a mix of red and white wine—but that’s a common misconception! So, how is rosé wine made?

The signature pink color comes from brief contact between grape skins and juice during fermentation. While red wines are fermented with skins for days or weeks, pink wines only undergo a few hours of maceration, giving them a lighter color and fresher profile.

There are several methods used to produce rosé, each influencing flavor and structure:

• Saignée method (“bleeding”): juice is drawn off early from red wine and fermented separately, often resulting in fuller-bodied rosés.
• Direct pressing: red grapes are gently pressed to create a pale, delicate wine.
• Short maceration: grape skins remain in contact briefly to extract just the right color and aroma.

Maceration time remains the most important factor, as it directly affects both the color intensity and the body structure, which defines the excellence in rose wine.

Common rosé wine grapes include:

Keep in mind, different grapes and production techniques result in very distinct rosé styles!

Types of rosé wine: body, sweetness and production style

The different types of rosé wine are influenced by factors like grape variety, winemaking techniques, and maceration time. Some are light and crisp, while others are richer and more full-bodied. Rosé wine types can be categorized by:

• Body — The weight or texture of the wine on the palate.
• Sweetness — Ranging from dry rose wine to lightly sweet styles.
• Production style — From saignée to direct press, each method shapes aroma and flavor.

Whether it’s the fresh, delicate notes from direct pressing or the more complex flavors resulting from extended skin contact, understanding these differences helps wine lovers choose a good rosé wine to suit their taste.

Rosé wine by body: light, medium and full styles

With so many textures and weights, understanding a rosé wine by body can be helpful when choosing a bottle. The body of a rosé refers to how light or full it feels in your mouth, shaped by grape variety, alcohol content, and production method:

• Light bodied rosé: crisp and refreshing, like Provençal rosés.
• Medium bodied rosé: balanced and fruity, such as “one-night” rosés.
• Full bodied rosé: bold and rich, like saignée rosés or those with 24+ hours of maceration.

Each type offers a unique tasting experience, ideal for different occasions. The table below highlights examples of pink rose wine by body type.

Body Type	Top Producers	Grape Varieties	Structure & Flavor
Light-bodied	Château d’Esclans, Manon, Zeni, Scribe Winery	Grenache, Cinsault, Pinot Noir, Rolle (Vermentino)	Crisp, dry, pale pink; notes of citrus, strawberry, and herbs
Medium-bodied	Henri Bourgeois, Cambria, Bouchaine	Pinot Noir, Syrah, Tempranillo, Sangiovese	Balanced acidity, fruity; flavors of raspberry, cherry, lemon
Full-bodied	Billecart-Salmon, Piper-Heidsieck, Ruinart	Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir	Rich, structured; flavors of red berries, almond, brioche

Light bodied rosé wines

Light bodied rosé wines are crisp, refreshing wines with bright acidity and a delicate mouthfeel. Their pale color and notes of red berries, citrus, and florals make them a great choice for seafood, salads, or light appetizers. These wines are ideal for warm weather or as a versatile aperitif.

Medium bodied rosé wine

Medium bodied rose wine strikes the perfect balance between freshness and structure. With a fuller texture, they often feature flavors like ripe berries, pomegranate, and mild spices. These wines pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, chicken, and Mediterranean dishes, offering a versatile option for a wide range of meals.

Full bodied rosé wines  

Full bodied rosé wines are rich and intense, often made from more robust grape varieties like Syrah or Cabernet. These wines typically feature deep fruit flavors, a round mouthfeel, and a longer finish. Their complexity makes them an excellent match for bold dishes like grilled meats or spicy cuisines.

Rosé sparkling wine: a bubbly delight for celebrations

Rosé sparkling wine is a top choice, especially for celebrations, due to its vibrant bubbles and refreshing flavor. Here are our 3 best sparkling wine rosé recommendations:

1. Laurent Perrier Cuvee Rose Magnum – France – Notes of ripe red berries and wild cherries, with a crisp clean finish.
2. Schramsberg Brut Rosé by Schramsberg Vineyards – Vibrant notes of raspberry, rose petal, and toasted brioche.
3. Shaffenberger Brut Rose – California – Blends dry, floral notes with cherry and citrus flavors.

Serving tips: serve at 45–50°F. Use a flute or tulip glass to enhance aroma and maintain effervescence.

Rosé wine: discovering pink wines by sweetness

That soft pink color often makes us expect something sweet and refreshing—and with sweet pink wine, that’s usually true! While many rosés are dry, others offer a delicious range of sweetness levels that cater to every palate.

Here’s how rose, aka pink wine is typically classified:

• Dry: crisp and refreshing, with little to no residual sugar.
• Off-dry: a touch of sweetness balanced by acidity.
• Sweet: juicy and ripe, bursting with red fruit notes.

Whether you enjoy the crisp, refreshing profile of a rosé with bright acidity or the fruit-forward charm of a sweeter style, the chart below highlights top-rated pink wine selections to satisfy every palate.

Sweetness	Top Picks & Producers	Common Varietals
Dry	Murrieta’s Well Dry Rose 2023	Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Sangiovese
0ff-Dry	Silver Sky Semi Dry – Sparkling rosé by Contessa Annalisa Collection	Pinot Noir, Merlot, Zinfandel
Sweet	Rose Spumante Dolce – Cantine Cavicchioli	Zinfandel, Muscat, Moscato

Non alcoholic rosé wine

Looking for a light and refined alcohol-free alternative? Non alcoholic rosé wine is exactly what you need! These wines retain the fresh, fruity, and floral aromas of the best rose wines but without the alcohol content.

Here are three great options: 

• Giesen 0% rosé – by Giesen
  Food pairing suggestions: grilled shrimp or fish tacos.
• Opia Organic rosé – by Opia
  Food pairing suggestions: Thai dishes, fresh fruit, and soft cheese.
• Rosé Alcohol-Removed – by Missing Thorn
  Food pairing suggestions: roasted chicken or turkey, pizza

Rosé & bites: delicious food to pair with rosé wine

While rosé wine is often associated with appetizers, it’s actually incredibly versatile! With lighter tannins than reds and lower acidity than whites, the best food to pair with rosé wine ranges from crisp salads to grilled meats.

Our rosé versatile wine pairing review below highlights just how well this style complements a wide range of dishes, making it a must-have for any food lover’s table.

Food	Rosé Wine	Grape Variety	Type & Structure
Grilled Shrimp, Niçoise Salad, Goat Cheese	Up rosé 2023 – Ultimate Provence	Grenache, Cinsault, Pinot Noir, Syrah	Dry, medium bodied, fruity
Caprese Salad, Margherita Pizza, Prosciutto	Visione Rosato 2021 – Feudi di San Gregorio	Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Aglianico	Dry, medium bodied, fruity
Roasted Chicken, Roasted Vegetables	Corse Figari rosé 2021 – Clos Canarelli	Nielluccio, Syrah, Grenache	Dry, medium bodied, fresh with a touch of minerality
Sushi, Grilles Salmon, Light Fish Pasta Dishes	Santa Margherita rosé 2021 – Santa Margherita	Grenache, Pinot Grigio	Light-bodied, crisp, refreshing
Aged Cheese, Lamb Meat	Bandol rosé 2018 – Domaine Tempier	Cabernet Sauvignon	Full-bodied, structured
Light Starters, Grilled White Fish	Rodon Bardolino chiaretto 2024 – Le Fraghe	Syrah, Grenache	Medium-bodied, fresh, fruity
Fresh Berries, Brie, Spicy Food	Pink Moscato 2012 – Barefoot rosé Wine	Zinfandel	Fruity, medium-bodied
Sausage, Peppers, Grilled Pork Chops	Secret de Leoube Rosé 2023 – Chateau Leoube	Zinfandel	Medium-bodied, crisp, refreshing

The pink wave in the USA: California rosé wine and other wine regions

In the United States, the rose wine market is booming, now ranking second in global consumption. This growing love for pink wine is fueled by some of the world’s most innovative winemakers, particularly along the West Coast in California. 

California rosé wine reflects the region’s creative spirit and diversity. While states like Washington and Oregon also produce quality rosé, California has led a new wave of modern styles that rival their European counterparts.

So, what makes California rosés stand out?

• Innovative winemaking techniques: from cold fermentation to minimal intervention, winemakers are pushing boundaries to enhance freshness and aromatics.
• Wide grape selection: beyond Zinfandel, grapes like Grenache, Pinot Noir, Mourvèdre, and Syrah are commonly used to craft elegant and expressive rosés.
• Diverse terroirs: regions like Sonoma, Paso Robles, and Santa Barbara offer unique microclimates for balanced, vibrant wines.

The table below highlights some standout California rosé wine recommendations, along with selections from other U.S. regions.

Region /Grapes	Top to Try	Characteristics
Napa Valley, CA – Pinot Noir	Rosé of Pinot Noir 2017 – Mira Winery	Light-medium bodied, semi dry, medium acidity
Sonoma County, CA – Sangiovese	Dry Sangiovese rosé 2021- Ferrari-Carano	Medium bodied, moderate acidity and dry
Paso Robles, CA – Grenache	Julia rosé 2023 – Hearst Ranch	Light bodied, crisp
Santa Rita Hills, CA – Pinot Noir	Rosé of Pinot Noir 2018 – The Paring rosé	Light bodied, dry, soft acidity
Willamette Valley, OR – Pinot Noir	Whole Cluster rosé of Pinot Noir 2023 – Willamette Valley Vineyards	Light bodied, dry and bright
Columbia Valley, WA – Syrah	Portlandia 2022 Columbia Valley rosé – Portlandia Winery	Light bodied, bright acidity, dry

Italian rosé wine: a journey through tradition

These wines are crafted from Italy’s beloved varietals, like Sangiovese and Negroamaro, each telling a story of its origin. From the vibrant and fresh flavors of the south to the more refined, elegant notes from the north, Italian rose wine is as diverse as the regions it comes from. Our experts have selected top Italian rosé wine recommendations for you to try in 2025.

Region /Grapes	Top Producers	Wine Style
Veneto Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara	Le Fraghe, Giovanna Tantini, Vigneti Villabella	Pale pink, delicate floral notes, crisp acidity, light-bodied
Lombardy Groppello, Sangiovese, Barbera	Pasini San Giovanni, Selva Capuzza, Le Sincette	Floral aromas, red berry flavors, medium acidity, elegant structure
Abruzzo  Montepulciano	Valentini, Emidio Pepe, Tiberio, Cataldi Madonna	Deep cherry color, rich red fruit flavors, noticeable tannins, full-bodied
Puglia Negroamaro, Bombino Nero, Primitivo	Leone de Castris, Tormaresca, Li Veli, Cantine San Marzano	Bright pink hues, ripe cherry and berry notes, balanced acidity, medium to full-bodied
Tuscany Sangiovese	Fattoria La Valentina, Castello di Ama, Il Palagio	Light to medium pink, strawberry and floral notes, refreshing acidity, medium-bodied

French rosé wine: a taste of elegance and terroir

French rosé wine is more than a drink—it’s a lifestyle rooted in elegance, simplicity, and terroir. France is home to some of the world’s most iconic rosé wines:

• Provence rosé wine is known for its pale pink, with citrus notes and wild herbs.
• Tavel offers bolder, more structured rose wine styles.
• The Loire Valley brings bright, fruit-forward charm.

With so many styles, there’s a French rosé for every palate! Below are some of our favorites.

Region /Grapes	Top Pick	Wine Style
Provence Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah	Château d’Esclans Estate Rose 2022	Pale, dry, light-bodied and crisp
Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot	JC Calvet Cremant de Bordeaux Brut Rose	Structured and fresh, balanced acidity
Burgundy Pinot Noir	Petit Bourgeois Rosé de Pinot Noir 2024	Delicate, high acidity, light-bodied
Rhône Valley Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre	Roseblood Rosé – Chateaux d’Estoublon	Medium body and dry
Languedoc Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah	French Cancan Brut Nature Rose – Gérard Bertrand	Bold and complex, fuller body

Rosé wine varieties: the different regions and rosé wine grapes

Rosé wine varieties are as diverse as the regions they come from. From the pale, mineral-driven styles of Provence to the fruit-forward expressions of California, each terroir brings its character to the glass.

Much of this variation comes down to the rose wine grapes used. Let’s explore some of the most popular regional rosé wine types: 

• Pinot Noir: light-bodied red grape with soft tannins and flavors of red berries, earth, and subtle spice.
• Grenache: juicy and fruity red variety, often used in blends or rosés; known for ripe berry flavors and warmth.
• Syrah: bold and spicy red grape producing wines with dark fruit, pepper, and smoky undertones.
• Sangiovese: classic Italian grape with bright acidity, cherry notes, and a savory, rustic profile.
• Tempranillo: Spain’s signature grape, offering medium- to full-bodied wines with plum, leather, and tobacco hints.
• Zinfandel: powerful red grape from California, known for jammy fruit, spice, and high alcohol content.
• Moscato: sweet and aromatic white grape, producing low-alcohol wines with peach, orange blossom, and light fizz.

Exploring the world of rosé wine brands means discovering how climate, soil, and tradition all influence the final result in your glass. Below are some of the most popular.

Moscato rosé wine: your go-to dessert wine

Born in the alpine slopes of northern Italy, Moscato Rosa—or rosénmuskateller—is a true hidden gem. Delicate in the vineyard and difficult to grow, its low yields make each bottle something special.

Expect fragrant notes of wild roses, candied berries, and warm spice. Moscato rosé wine is made for slow moments—dreamy with fruit tarts or blue cheese.

1. 1. Victoria Pink Moscato 2022 - Innocent Bystander (Australia)

   

   Flavor: Confected fruit aromas like watermelon

   Body & structure: Light bodied, sweet, good level of acidity

2. 2. Bubbly Pink Moscato - Allure (California)

   

   Flavor: Flavors of gardenias, apricot, honeysuckle,and peach

   Body & structure: Light bodied, very sweet and dry

3. 3. Moscato rosé - Villa Jolanda (Italy)

   

   Flavor: Aromas of golden apples, peach rosé and honey

   Body & structure: Light bodied, sweet

Pinot Noir rosé wine: the most sophisticated taste

If rosé had a silk robe, it would be Pinot Noir rose wine. Grown in cooler climates like Burgundy or Oregon, it whispers notes of strawberry, citrus, and rose petals. Its light body and bright acidity make it a star with sushi, fresh salads, or grilled shrimp.

1. 1. Rosé de Pinot Noir 2023 - Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey (France)

   

   Flavor: Wild strawberry, raspberry, subtle citrus, light floral notes

   Body & structure: Medium bodied, high acidity, crisp and elegant

2. 2. Meyer-Nakel Ahr Pinot Noir Rose 2021

   

   Flavor: Wild strawberry, rose water, citrus zest

   Body & structure: Light bodied, high acidity, dry

3. 3. Pinot Noir rosé - Stoller Family Estate (Oregon)

   

   Flavor: Flavors of watermelon and key lime

   Body & structure: Light bodied, great acidity

4. 4. Barefoot Rosé Wine - Pink Moscato 2012 (California)

   

   Flavor: Raspberry and subtle watermelon. Hints of strawberry and a bit of sweet citrus aroma

   Body & structure: Medium to light bodied, crisp, gently sweet

Grenache rosé wine: a touch of Mediterranean warmth

Sun-drenched and joyful, Grenache rosé wine (aka Garnacha Rosado) brings Provence to your glass. With juicy bursts of cherry, pomegranate, and watermelon, it’s summer bottled. Crisp and dry, it pairs seamlessly with grilled veggies, goat cheese, or just warm air and laughter.

1. 1. Gerard Bertrand Rouge Clair 2023 - Grenache (France)

   

   Flavor: Aromas of summer strawberries, hints of florals

   Body & structure: Medium bodied, balanced acidity and mineral finish

2. 2. A Tribute to Grace Santa Barbara Highlands Vineyard Rose of Grenache 2023 (California)

   

   Flavor: Raspberry, blood orange, floral

   Body & structure: Medium bodied, medium to high acidity

3. 3. Whispering Angel rosé 2023 - Château d'Esclans (France)

   

   Flavor: Aromas of small berries, red currants and salt

   Body & structure: Light - medium bodied, fresh and dry

4. 4. Rose of Grenache 2024 - Morgan Winery (Washington)

   

   Flavor: Notes of watermelon, strawberry leaf and pear

   Body & structure: Medium bodied, dry, medium acidity

Syrah rosé wine: a full bodied with smoky undertones

For those who love a bit of drama in their glass, Syrah rosé wine delivers. Richer in color and bolder in flavor, it brings raspberry, cherry, and a touch of savory spice. With a medium body and a clean, dry finish, it’s perfect for pairing with charcuterie, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables. This is a wine that holds its own—bold enough for red lovers, fresh enough for rosé fans.

1. 1. Belleruche Côtes-du-Rhône rosé 2023 - Maison Chapoutier

   

   Flavor: Aromas of apricot, fennel and floral scents

   Body & structure: Medium bodied, fresh acidity

2. 2. Cherub rosé of Syrah 2022 - Montes (Chile)

   

   Flavor: Bright red berries, floral hints, and subtle spice

   Body & structure: Medium bodied, high acidity

3. 3. Syrah rosé 2015 - Eberle (California)

   

   Flavor: Ripe raspberry, wild strawberry, and peppery spice

   Body & structure: Medium bodied, medium acidity, dry finish

4. 4. Syrah rosé 2015 - Yves Cuilleron (France)

   

   Flavor: Fresh raspberry, rosé petal, citrus zest

   Body & structure: Light bodied, high acidity

Top tier rosé wines: why rosé is worth collecting

Rosé wines have long been underestimated compared to reds and whites—often mistakenly seen as simple or inexpensive. But in reality, some rosés rival the finest wines in ageability, depth, and prestige.

While most rosés are meant to be enjoyed young and don’t have significant aging potential, a select few have earned a place in the cellars of serious collectors for different reasons:

• Their rarity: they are produced in limited quantities.
• Their reputation: they are sourced from historic vineyards.
• Their exclusivity: they are only available through exclusive channels or private allocations.

If you’re thinking of building a wine collection, rose wines may surprise you! Take Five Roses by Leone de Castris, for example: Italy’s first commercially bottled rosé and a cult favorite among collectors.

Rosé wine serving temperature: what you need to know

When it comes to rosé wine serving temperature, here’s the trick: it should be chilled, but not too cold. The ideal range is around 50–55°F. If served too cold, the wine’s delicate aromas and flavors can be muted. Too warm, and it may taste flat or overly alcoholic.

In addition to serving temperature, three important factors for a great rosé wine are acidity, alcohol level (ABV), and aging potential. Together, these elements contribute to the overall experience, enhancing the wine’s flavor, texture, and longevity.

Not all rosés are created equal—some are perfect for casual sipping, while others offer more depth and structure. The chart below gives you a clear look at how to serve different rosé wine styles at their best.

Wine Name	ABV	Tannin / Acidity	Aging Potential	Serving Temp
Minuty Prestige rosé 2023 – Château Minuty	12,5%	Low tannins, low acidity	4 years	46.4-50° F
Whispering Angel rosé 2019 – Château d’Esclans	13%	Low tannins, moderate acidity	3-4 years	46.4-50° F
Nectar Impérial Demi-Sec rosé – Moët & Chandon	12,5%	Moderate tannins, fresh acidity	4 years	42,8° F
rosé 2011 – La Vieille Ferme	13,5%	Low tannins, crisp acidity	2-4 years	50-54° F
Clos Mireille Côtes de Provence rosé 2023 – Domaines Ott	14%	Low tannins, fresh acidity	3-5 years	46,4-50° F
Miraval rosé 2023 – Château Miraval	13%	Low tannins and acidity	3 years	46,4-50° F
Dolce & Gabbana Rosa 2024 – Donnafugata	12%	Low tannin, medium acidity	2-3 years	50-53,6° F
Chavignol Sancerre rosé 2023 – François Cotat	14,6%	Low tannin, medium acidity	3 years	50-53,6° F

How to store your rosé wine bottle: 5 tips

Wondering how to store and keep your rosé wine bottle in the best condition? Here are 5 essential tips to preserve its freshness, structure, and aroma:

1. Store it cool – Keep rosé at a consistent temperature between 45–65°F. Avoid heat and sudden changes.
2. Keep it dark – Light, especially UV rays, can damage wine and alter its flavors. Store bottles in a dark place.
3. Avoid strong odors – Rosé is sensitive to its environment and can absorb nearby smells. Store it away from cleaning products, paints, or other strong-smelling items.
4. Lay it sideways (if corked) – This will ensure the cork stays moist, which helps maintain a tight seal and prevents air from entering.
5. Mind the humidity – If possible, keep humidity around 60–70%. Too dry, and corks may crack; too damp, and labels or corks may mold.

How to choose the best rosé wine for beginners

Figuring out how to choose the best rose wine for beginners doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few tips and a bit of curiosity, you’ll quickly find your favorites! Let’s start with three beginner-friendly rosé wines:

• Provence Rosé (France)
  Body: pale, dry, and crisp, with notes of citrus, strawberry, and herbs.
  Best for: seafood, salads, or Mediterranean dishes.
• Summer in a Bottle Rosé (Wölffer Estate, USA)
  Body: fresh, fruit-forward, and aromatic with peach, melon, and floral notes.
  Best for: brunch, grilled chicken, or a summer picnic.
• Garnacha Rosado (Spain)
  Body: medium-bodied, vibrant, with red berry flavors and fresh acidity.
  Best for: tapas, roasted veggies, or grilled chicken.

These styles offer a great entry point to rosé. Once you’ve tried one or two, here are some tips to help you explore further:

• Pay attention to the alcohol content: rosés with a lower ABV (around 11-12%) tend to be ideal for casual sipping. Higher ABVs (13% or more) will be great for a meal.
• Decide on sweetness: if you prefer dry wines, go for Provence, Tavel, or Côtes de Provence. Like it fruitier or more aromatic? Try Moscato Rosé.
• Look at the color: pale rosés tend to be lighter and more delicate; deeper pinks are usually bolder and fruitier.
• Explore global styles: try Italian rosato for bold flavor, Spanish rosado for juicy brightness, or even a sparkling rosé from California.
• Go seasonal: crisp, fresh rosés are perfect in warm weather, while fuller, more structured ones are great for autumn meals.

With these simple tips and starter bottles, you’ll feel more confident choosing rosé wines that match your taste—and the occasion.

How rosé wine is rated by critics: inside the scoring process

Like red and whites, rosé wines are typically scored on a 100-point scale by major publications such as Wine Spectator and Decanter, often in blind tastings to avoid bias. Critics assess rosé based on a few key attributes:

• Appearance – The evaluation begins with color and clarity, ranging from pale salmon to bright pink.
• Aroma – Critics look for fresh fruit notes, floral hints, and subtle herbal or mineral undertones.
• Structure – The main elements are balance, mouthfeel, complexity, and finish.
• Aging potential – While not all rosés are meant to age, critics evaluate depth and cellaring ability, often awarding higher scores to rosés that show longevity.

Another important factor—often the most important—is how well a rosé shows its origin. Critics look for a strong connection between the wine and the place it comes from, known as terroir, as well as how clearly it reflects the rosé grape variety used. Wines that capture both their terroir and grape character tend to get higher ratings.

Example: a Provence rosé is expected to be light, dry, and mineral-driven, while a Tavel rosé is usually richer and fruitier.