It is officially Rosé season. While regular readers know that I generally advocate for enjoying Rosé year-round, there is no denying the increasing presence of pink wines on store shelves each spring. This year, I am giving in to the hype and embracing the seasonal marketing push. Here are three selections to kick off the season.
Sierra Salinas 2024 Bobal Rosado, Spain ($12.99, #102866)
Rosé, or rosado in Spanish, comes in many styles. It is important not to treat pink wine as a monolith. However, when people think of the Rosé-all-day trend, this style often comes to mind. Sierra Salinas is fun and unfussy, with candied berry tones and a soft entry. It lacks precise definition but remains fresh, with a lengthy, slightly hot finish. This wine is perfect for an impromptu Rosé spritz with seltzer and fresh fruit, ideally paired with backyard grilling.
Bottom line: C+, Burger Rosé.
Calafuria 2024 Negroamaro Rosato, Italy ($29.99, #606897)
Next, we travel to southern Italy's Salento region for a rosato made from the local Negroamaro grape. This deep pink Rosé offers expressive floral and red berry aromatics. It is a more substantive blush with good weight and texture, providing a pleasurable chewy characteristic before an herb-flecked finish. Pair this full-bodied pink with a juicy rib-eye steak for a springtime twist.
Bottom line: A-, Textural, luxurious Rosé.
Joie Farm 2023 Plein de Vie Brut, B.C. ($31.30, available through the winery)
Finally, do not forget sparkling Rosé. It adds a festive vibe with its pretty colour and effervescence. Joie Farm's "full of life" sparkling pink brut lives up to its name with a captivating deep pink hue. This blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (56/44) is made using the Charmat method. It offers juicy red fruit and yeasty aromas with a smooth, fruity finish. Enjoy it solo or with a charcuterie plate on a patio.
Bottom line: B, Fun and festive Rosé.
The Swirl: Naramata Bench Spring Release
Spring also brings the annual Naramata Bench Wineries spring release. The 2026 edition takes place Thursday, May 7, from 6-8 p.m. (VIP tickets allow early entry at 5 p.m.) at Vancouver Community College's Downtown Campus Atrium. New selections from over 15 Naramata Bench wineries will be available, along with small bites. Tickets are $59 for general admission and $79 for VIP, available at naramatabench.com. This is a 19-plus event.
