Technically, the types of rose wine can be split into two categories, pre—World War II era and post—World War II era. What this really means is that before WWII, rose wines were favored for their dry, almost bitter taste. After the war, there was a new demand for rose wines that were a bit sweeter and lighter. This lighter and sweeter taste is the same basic preference for rose wine that most people favor today.

Since 1970 there has been a steady increase in the preference for rose wines over the reds. Thus, in response to the higher demand for varying types of rose wine the wine markets reintroduced a drier rose wine made from Rhone grapes. This species of grape produces a wine that is not only dry but has a bold taste to it that seems to be pushing wine drinkers back toward pre war era wines.

Carignan, Syrah, and Grenache have become the dry wine market’s golden children, with sales often exceeding the red wine competition. Some wine connoisseurs have indicated that nearly any type of rose wine that hails from California, France, Italy, or Spain will carry the wine drinker’s tastes into the realm of roses. 

For the novice wine drinker, trying to pick a bottle of rose from the literally thousands of types that line the liquor store shelves can be overwhelming. After all, a serious wine connoisseur seems to have explicit knowledge about wine that one would suspect has been with them since childhood. For a fruity and sweet taste a bottle of Rose Laudun is often a good choice. For a bolder wine that comes across drier, go for Secret Syrah Domaine Dieu—Rose. If you’re looking for the middle of the road smack in between sweet and dry, Castel D’Age Merlot Rose is a good choice. Getting to know the wide variety of rose wines on the market can be a very enjoyable experience. You certainly don’t have to be a distinguished connoisseur to determine which types of rose wine you prefer.

Related posts:

1. Rosé Wine / Blush Wine
2. Types of White Wine