Let's revel in the spirit of summer, friendship, and everything pink on National Rosé Day! While opening a delightful bottle of rosé hardly needs justification, we've got some fantastic suggestions to turn this day into a lively and unforgettable celebration. Traditionally observed every second Saturday of June—this year landing on June 8—National Rosé Day was initiated by Swedish Rosé house Bodvár to honor this magnificent summertime wine. Whether you fancy your rosé still or sparkling, with a deep pink hue or leaning towards orange, raise a toast to this flawless summer libation.

Purpose of National Rosé Day

National Rosé Day celebrates rosé wine and its rising popularity across the globe. Rosé is known for its vibrant color and refreshing taste, making it a favorite beverage during warm weather. The day encourages wine enthusiasts to gather with friends and family to enjoy this versatile wine, often associated with outdoor parties, brunches, and casual gatherings.

History of National Rosé Day

National Rosé Day was first established in 2014 by Bodvár House of Rosés, a Swedish rosé producer. The brand aimed to create a national observance that honored rosé wine, promoting its unique qualities and appeal to wine lovers around the world. Since then, the day has grown in popularity, with events and celebrations taking place in restaurants, vineyards, and homes across the country.

What Is Rosé Wine?

Rosé wine is a type of wine that gets its characteristic pink color from the short contact time between the grape juice and the grape skins. This process is known as maceration, where the skins of red grapes are left to sit in the juice for a short period, typically between 2 to 24 hours, before being removed. The result is a wine that is lighter in color than red wine but more vibrant than white wine.

The flavor profile of rosé can vary widely, depending on the grape varieties used and the winemaking techniques, but it is often described as light, fruity, and slightly floral with hints of strawberry, raspberry, citrus, and melon.

Types of Rosé

There are several types of rosé wines, each with distinct characteristics:

1. Provence Rosé: Hailing from the Provence region in France, this is one of the most famous and popular styles of rosé. It is typically pale pink, dry, and crisp with flavors of red fruit, citrus, and sometimes herbs.

2. Spanish Rosado: Spanish rosé wines, known as "rosado," tend to be more robust and fruit-forward, often made from grapes like Tempranillo or Garnacha (Grenache).

3. Italian Rosato: Italy produces rosé wines known as "rosato," which vary from light and dry to more full-bodied styles. They can be made from various grape varieties, including Sangiovese, Montepulciano, and Nebbiolo.

4. Blush Wine: In the U.S., "blush" wines, such as White Zinfandel, are a sweeter, often mass-produced style of rosé that gained popularity in the 1980s and '90s.

5. Sparkling Rosé: Sparkling rosé wines have a bubbly effervescence and are often enjoyed as celebratory drinks. Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava producers all make versions of sparkling rosé.

How to Celebrate National Rosé Day

National Rosé Day is all about savoring this wine, typically in warm, social settings. Here are some popular ways to celebrate:

1. Rosé Tasting Parties: Host or attend a rosé wine tasting event where guests can sample different varieties and styles of rosé. This is a fun way to explore the diversity of rosé wines from different regions.

2. Pairing Rosé with Food: Pair your favorite rosé with a summer-inspired meal. Rosé is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many types of food, including:

   • Seafood: Light, dry rosés complement dishes like shrimp, oysters, and grilled fish.
   • Charcuterie: Rosé pairs beautifully with cured meats, cheeses, and fruits, making it ideal for a charcuterie board.
   • Salads and Light Pasta: Fresh salads, especially those with fruits or vinaigrette dressings, pair nicely with rosé. Light pasta dishes also complement its fruity flavors.

3. Rosé Cocktails: Try creating refreshing rosé-based cocktails, such as a rosé spritz or frosé (frozen rosé). These are perfect for cooling down on a warm summer day.

4. Outdoor Picnic: Since rosé is often associated with outdoor settings, consider having a picnic with friends and family. Bring a chilled bottle of rosé and some light summer snacks to enjoy under the sun.

5. Vineyard Visits: Visit a local winery or vineyard that specializes in rosé production. Many wineries host special events, tastings, and tours in honor of National Rosé Day.

6. Social Media Engagement: Use hashtags like #NationalRoséDay or #RoséAllDay to share your rosé celebrations on social media. It’s a fun way to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts and discover new rosé brands.

Health Benefits of Rosé

While moderate alcohol consumption is always advised, rosé wine can have some potential health benefits similar to red wine due to the presence of antioxidants like resveratrol. Some reported benefits include:

• Heart Health: Like red wine, rosé may help improve cardiovascular health when consumed in moderation, thanks to its antioxidants.
• Lower Calorie Count: Rosé generally has fewer calories than most red wines, making it a lighter option for those watching their calorie intake.

Fun Facts About Rosé Wine

• Rosé is one of the oldest types of wine: Some of the earliest wines produced were likely similar to rosé, due to the brief contact between juice and skins.
• It’s not a blend of red and white wine: Contrary to popular belief, most rosé wines are not made by mixing red and white wines together (though this practice is allowed in Champagne for sparkling rosé).
• Millennials helped rosé surge in popularity: The social media-driven culture, with its love for Instagram-worthy pink drinks, has been a big part of rosé’s boom in the past decade.
• Rosé can be aged: While most people think of rosé as a wine to be enjoyed young, some high-quality rosés, especially from regions like Provence, can benefit from aging.

Conclusion

National Rosé Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the pink-hued wine that has become synonymous with summer relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you’re sipping it at a pool party, hosting a rosé tasting, or simply relaxing on your porch with a glass in hand, this day is all about celebrating the flavors and lifestyle that rosé brings. With its refreshing, versatile nature, rosé wine continues to win the hearts of wine enthusiasts across the country, making National Rosé Day a highly anticipated event each year.