The standard of New Zealand rosés continues to rise every year, writes John Saker.
Pink is not the new white – but it’s many shades closer than it used to be. Many of the first rosés of summer were plucked and put before the Cuisine panel, which appreciated a continuation of the rise in standard noted last year. “There was a good showing of wines that have the brightness, freshness and drink-now appeal that is so important for rosé,” said panel chair John Belsham. John Saker concurred, adding that tension is also an important part of the mix: “A number of wines sagged under the weight of overt sweetness.” Of the 75 wines entered, one emerged with five stars and a further nine were awarded four stars.
The Tasting Panel
The NZ sauvignon blanc tasting panel also tasted NZ rosé.