Gaby
A team of experts has explained what makes the perfect rosé wine for enjoyment.
On a summer evening, there’s nothing quite like savoring a glass of chilled rosé. However, this delightful experience comes with its own set of rules.
The notion that the drink should be served ice-cold is a common misconception. Before pouring the wine into glasses, it should be taken out of the refrigerator about half an hour in advance. This allows it to reach the optimal temperature necessary for fully revealing its flavor.
What the Experts Discovered
A research group from M&S Food surveyed 2,000 adult Britons. It turns out that 48 percent of respondents were misusing rosé wine.
Belinda Kleinig, a winemaker and co-author of the study, noted, “It’s a widespread myth that rosé wine should be served ice-cold; in reality, serving wine too cold can mute its fruity flavor and hide some aromas.”
According to the researcher, the ideal temperature for enjoying rosé wine is between 7-13 °C (45-55 °F). This means it’s best to take it out of the fridge about 15-30 minutes before serving.
On the other hand, rosé that is too warm can taste dull and less refreshing. Additionally, the bitterness of the drink is heightened, and its best flavor qualities are muted.
Ms. Kleinig added that during hot weather, there’s nothing wrong with adding a few ice cubes to a glass of rosé. Wine enthusiasts do it too, the expert said.
Another common mistake related to rosé wine is the distorted perception of its production. The survey revealed that one in ten participants believes that rosé is made by mixing red and white wines.
In reality, rosé wines are produced through a process called maceration, where the grapes are pressed with their skins, which are then removed before the drink darkens.
Meanwhile, twice as many respondents stated that they prefer pale rosé in the style of Provence over darker wines from regions like California or Portugal.
In recent years, the popularity of rosé wine has surged worldwide, experts noted. Last summer, for instance, a bottle of rosé was sold every two seconds at the store conducting the research.
A Few Words About Red Wine
The researchers also addressed red wine, which traditionally has many fans. The survey indicated that the idea of storing red wine in the refrigerator remains foreign to many. Only one in six considers it acceptable for themselves, the Daily Mail reported.
However, experts assert that some light red wines benefit from being slightly chilled. A lower temperature enhances their fruity flavor and makes them refreshing.
According to the researchers, these red wines should be kept in the refrigerator for about half an hour—no longer, as prolonged chilling can “mute the flavor and make the tannins sharper and drier.”
What About Storing Wine in an Open Bottle?
The survey also showed that most people are unaware of how long a bottle of wine should be stored after it has been opened.
Experts say that lighter wines, including most whites and rosés, can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days after opening. Meanwhile, full-bodied reds can last up to five days.
As for sparkling wines, they are best enjoyed within one to two days to preserve the bubbles.
