Rosé Rising

We are delighted to be partnering this event with the Westminster Kingsway College – one of the leading catering colleges in the UK. Their students will provide the venue, food and service. Please join us to support the budding stars of gastronomy in the UK! We should all be raising a buzz about them.

Spare more than a passing thought for humble rosé! Yes, it’s that summery sip that evokes images of warm Mediterranean waters and fragrant lavender fields. And yes, it’s that white zin that feels perfectly in situ at rave parties or that Whispering Angel that sells by the sixer at the local off-license.

Like the mis-named categories of ‘orange’ and ‘natural’ wine, rosé’s dramatic rise in global popularity over the past decade has led to opposing camps of public opinion. On Instagram, it’s ‘no way rosé’ vs ‘all day rosé’.

However, what is undeniable is that rosé wine as a category continues to flourish – both in terms of volume and range. Almost every region around the world that grows black grapes for red wine also produces it. Some areas, such as Tavel in southern Rhone, only produce rosé. Wine making techniques have also diversified – from blending, to a fascinating process called saignée, to skin contact maceration of varying lengths and temperature ranges. Some use oak to add complexity and body. In short, the range of styles is enormous. Rosé can be perfectly fresh and lively on its own or with a nibble of goat cheese. Other styles pair surprisingly well with full-on dishes such as roasted chicken or even a grilled filet.

Join the Capital Branch and London Branch in a masterclass that explores what rosé is today. We taste a range of wine styles, including some rich and age-worthy bottles, from around the world. We explore food pairings with canapés and a light dinner.

Wines to be tasted:

2020 Hattingley Valley Rosé, Hattingley Valley (England)

2022 Not Your Grandma's Rosé, Chaffey Bros (Australia)

2022 Crios Malbec Rosé, Susana Balbo, Mendoza (Argentina)

2022 Secret de Léoube Organic, Chateau Léoube (Provence)

2022 Tavel Cuvée Prima Donna Rosé, Domaine Maby (S Rhone)

2018 Chateau Musar Rosé (Lebanon)

2021 Gaia 4-6H Rosé Agioritiko (Greece)

Food: Four canapés, specifically prepared to pair with the wines, followed by choice of a chicken or vegetarian course.