A Rosé by any other name....

To some Rosé is the ugly cousin of the standard red and white varieties, but I think that rosé has been given a bad rap.  How could one possibly resist the delightful beauty of it?  I'm sure you've seen it in stores all dressed up and pretty in pink.

Rosé is not red wine but not quite white either its blushing color leaves it somewhere in the middle. So what’s the difference between rosé and blush wines you ask?  Plenty.

Rosé wines are usually derived from red grapes, but the skins are removed before the color can leave its indelible impression. Blush on the other hand is procured in pretty much the same way; however, they are usually made with light skinned grapes and small amounts of red wine is later introduced, which provides it’s “blushing” tint.

In terms of appearance, rosé and blush are very similar. But once you have developed your tasting palate you will be able to tell the difference.  The most important thing is whether you like it or not. 

Zinfandel is probably the most popular blush wine. Ironically, it was made entirely by accident by Sutter Home Winery: