It used to be every discussion of dry pink wine included a detailed explanation that it was not the same as White Zinfandel but yes, your Aunt Edna could sip it on Sunday afternoons and would likely enjoy it just fine. Apparently this message has been hammered home several million times over because now there is apparently an un-precedented surge in consumption of Rose in America.
A recent article appearing in Wines and Vines written by Tina Caputo cited a Nielsen Co. report stating that Rose consumption grew exponentially faster than the sector for total Table Wine over a one-year cycle. In the 52 week period ending February 9, 2008, the report shows a modest boost of 2.9% in total Table Wine consumption domestically. However consumption of Rose has risen over 49% in the same period.
The article further quotes Paige Poulos, President of Paige Poulos Communications and co-founder of RAP (Rose Avengers and Producers) "These latest numbers demonstrate a powerful long-term trend for fine rose in the U.S." Poulos adds, "Rose has become an important and respected wine on the American table."
RAP will celebrate its 4th annual PINK OUT tasting event featuring dozens of producers of Rose, in San Francisco on May 13th at Butterfly Restaurant on the waterfront. it is open to consumers between 630 and 830 PM and tickets are $35 each. Tickets may be obtained by sending an email to rap@paigepoulos.com
I have personally tried several very well made Rose recently with favorites being Joy Sterling's Iron Horse Rosato of Sangiovese, and a barrel aged example of Cabernet Franc from Greg and Petra Martin's Martin Estate, the latter a dead ringer for a fine Pinot Noir!
Incidentally statistics showed that the largest percentage growth over the last year for Rose occurred in the Miami, FL market, so if you are planning on visiting Aunt Edna at her Pompano Beach condo this summer, she may just offer you a Bandol instead of White Zinfandel.
Wouldn't that be refreshing? Yes, I'm sure it would...
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