Pink is in, when it comes to cocktails this season. Amber Dias finds out more.

There’s something magical about sipping on a cocktail that’s refreshing, light, and just a little bit glamorous, especially when the weather goes from hot to humid to wet in the blink of an eye.  Enter rosé-based cocktails, drinks that strike the perfect balance between sophistication and fun.

The Pink Revolution

From the pale blush of rosé to candy-pink gins, the delightful flavours, chilled luxury vibe and, of course, endless social media potential mean that the ‘pink drink’ trend is not going anywhere.  Here, we’re shining the spotlight on rosé – which has been around since the sixth century BC. And while it enjoyed a steady reign of being much-sought-after, its popularity has dipped and risen over the years, going on quite the rollercoaster ride. Speaking to a publication, Richard Ryan, co-founder of liquid development at Drinksology Kirker Greer, stated, “It once was regarded as a super-sweet wine for those who didn’t actually like wine. But now, there are more variations of great-quality rosé wines… a midpoint between the freshness of whites and the depth of reds.” Rosé became the toast of the town around the 2000s and thanks to some insightful marketing strategies, what was at one point considered a “feminine” drink, found its way into the parties of the rich and famous and gained favour with millennials for its easy, no wine knowledge required to enjoy, consumer-friendly vibe. Over the last decade, rosé has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. In fact, reports suggest, in 2021, the global market for rosé wine was valued at over $17 billion and is expected to continue growing.

Rosé Tinted Cocktails 

Rosé wines are known for their delicate, fruity flavours but when used in a cocktail, they create drinks that are light and lively, yet full of depth and personality. One reason rosé-based cocktails are so popular is their versatility.  Rosé, with its balance of fruitiness and crisp acidity, serves as a perfect base for a wide variety of flavours. Its subtle hints of berries, citrus, and even floral notes make it adaptable, complementing both fresh fruits and herbs in the warmer months, and richer ingredients like honey or spices when the weather cools down.

Rosé-based cocktails have a certain charm about them that makes them feel elevated yet effortless. They look gorgeous in any glass, from a classic coupe to a wine glass or a mason jar. Add a splash of vibrant fruit or a sprig of rosemary, and you’ve got yourself a drink that’s just as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. This elegance, paired with their refreshing nature, makes them perfect for everything from casual afternoons to festive evenings.

Pour ‘Em Out

The fun part of rosé-based cocktails is that there’s no need for complex ingredients or expert bartending skills — just grab a bottle of rosé and a few other basic ingredients to create something refreshing and fun!

Rosé Spritzer

A rosé spritzer is as simple as it sounds: Crisp, refreshing, and utterly satisfying. Simply pour some chilled rosé into a glass over ice, then top with sparkling water or soda. You can add a slice of citrus, like lemon or orange, for a little extra zing.

Rosé Lemonade

If you want something a little sweeter, a rosé lemonade is a perfect choice. Combine chilled rosé with lemonade (store-bought or fresh-squeezed) in a glass with ice. Garnish with a sprig of mint or a few raspberries for added flair. This cocktail strikes the perfect balance between the tartness of lemonade and the smooth fruitiness of rosé.

Rosé Sangria

Rosé sangria is a lighter and more vibrant twist on the classic. Combine rosé wine with a splash of brandy, a bit of orange juice, and slices of citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes. Refrigerate for a few hours and voilà! 

The Rosé Mule

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, the rosé mule is a fantastic alternative to the classic Moscow mule. Combine rosé with ginger beer and a squeeze of lime juice. The effervescence of the ginger beer pairs wonderfully with the smoothness of the rosé, and the lime gives the drink a citrusy punch. Serve over ice and garnish with a sprig of mint. 

Say Cheers!

Rosé-based cocktails aren’t just about the taste, they’re about the vibe they create. The beauty of the wine is that it can be dressed up or down, depending on your mood or the occasion. From the casual, refreshing spritzer to the more decadent sangria, rosé cocktails are an easy and delightful way to elevate any gathering, turning an ordinary moment into something special.

Wine Facts

• While rosé is often associated with summer, it’s actually a year-round wine. It’s light enough to be refreshing in the heat, but has enough body to complement heavier dishes in cooler weather.
  
• Rosé develops its attractive pink hue from the brief contact of red grape skins with the juice during the fermentation process. Unlike red wines, which ferment with the skins for extended periods, rosé is typically pressed off the skins after only a few hours, resulting in a lighter, pink hue. 

• France produces and consumes more rosé than any region.

• Spain exports more rosé than any region.

• Most rosé should be opened and enjoyed within two to three years of bottling.

Cocktail Cues

• Choose your rosé wisely: For fresh and light cocktails, opt for a young rosé wine with good acidity, while a rosé with a little more body works well for complex concoctions.

• Rosé should be served chilled (between 7°C – 13°C) so that it retains all its freshness without hiding its aromatic nuances.

Fresh fruits like raspberries, citrus fruits and herbs like mint or basil are perfect complements to enhance the flavours of the wine.