Oak and Amphora Aging: The Rising Trend in Rosé Winemaking

The 2024 edition of the "50 Great Rosé Wines of the World Competition" has rolled out a stunning array of rosé wines, showcasing the sheer quality and variety this category has to offer. A panel of renowned judges conducted blind tastings of wines from across the globe, including notable entries from France, Portugal, Spain, and Italy. Their focus was solely on quality, setting aside any consideration of price.

This year, dry rosés took center stage, making a significant impression on the judges. However, a fascinating trend emerged: the influence of oak and amphora aging on rosé wines. When applied with a deft hand, these aging techniques revealed that rosé can achieve greater depth and texture while maintaining its refreshing character.

The winning wines dazzled with a broad palette of colors, ranging from pale onion skin hues to vibrant salmon and deep pink shades. Provençal rosés, crafted from blends of Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault, shone brightly, alongside the more robust expressions of Primitivo, Sangiovese, and Aglianico from Italy, each offering a distinctive and delightful experience.

Italy's Moment in the Spotlight

Italy claimed the top spot this year with the magnificent Nudo 2023 from Siddura (Cannonau di Sardegna DOC Rosato), scoring an impressive 96 points. While Italy basked in this high honor, the competition underscored the global diversity of rosé wines. Spain made a strong showing with standout rosés from Castilla y León (Bodegas Gordonzello), Penedès (Aymar – Castell de Pujades), and Sierras de Málaga (Gross Hnos). Portugal also made a notable impact, utilizing native grape varieties like Touriga Nacional (Herdade do Freixo II) and Tinta Cão (Quinta do Monte Travesso) to secure their places on the list.

One of the pleasant surprises of the competition was the debut of Serbia, with a medium-dry rosé crafted from a blend of Prokupac and Cabernet Sauvignon. This entry demonstrated the potential of new players in the international rosé scene, adding a fresh perspective to the competition.

The 2024 edition of the "50 Great Rosé Wines of the World Competition" reaffirms that rosé is far more than just a summer wine. It is a serious and versatile category with offerings to suit every palate. From dry, food-friendly styles to richer, oak-aged versions, there is a rosé waiting to be discovered by everyone. This year's results celebrate not only the quality of the wines but also the diversity of styles, regions, and grape varieties, showing how rosé production continues to evolve and surprise.

The competition has once again highlighted the dynamic nature of rosé wines. It's a category that's not just growing in popularity but also in sophistication and variety. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual sipper, the world of rosé offers a delightful journey through different flavors, textures, and colors. The 2024 selection proves that there's always something new and exciting to explore in the realm of rosé. So, next time you're browsing the wine aisle, why not reach for a bottle from this prestigious list and taste the excellence for yourself? Cheers to the beautiful world of rosé!

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