When pairing food with rosé wine, there are a few things to keep in mind. Most importantly, Acidity: Rosé wines often have a refreshing acidity that can complement a wide range of foods. Consider dishes that have a similar level of acidity, such as salads with vinaigrette dressing or dishes with lemon-based sauces. Sweetness: Rosé wines can vary in sweetness levels, from bone-dry to slightly sweet. Consider the sweetness of the wine when pairing with food. Sweeter rosés may complement spicy dishes or contrast with salty foods, while drier rosés may pair better with lighter, more delicate flavors. Herbaceousness: Some rosé wines may exhibit herbal notes, which can pair well with dishes that contain fresh herbs or green vegetables. For example, a rosé with hints of basil might complement a caprese salad or pesto pasta dish. Regional Pairings: Consider the origin of the rosé wine when choosing food pairings. For example, a Provence rosé from France might pair well with Mediterranean-inspired dishes like grilled vegetables, olives, or seafood, while a Spanish rosé could complement tapas or paella.
Ultimately, the best food pairing for a rosé wine will depend on its specific characteristics, as well as personal preferences. Experimentation and tasting different combinations can help you discover what works best for your palate.
If you want to learn more about rosé, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Rosé Wine
Rosé wine is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, from light salads to hearty mains.
Here are 7 sommelier-approved rosé wine pairings of our favorite recipes from our test kitchen as well as our go-to’s for the sunny weather:
- Seafood Pasta: The bright acidity of rosé complement the delicate, yet savory flavors of seafood pasta like our Swordfish Papardelle. The lemon and tomatillo in this dish are high in acid, and the little kick from dijon make this pasta a flavor bomb! Any rosé will be a wonderful sip, washing down these bright flavors.
- Watermelon Chaat: The sweetness of watermelon and the heat of the serrano chile create a perfect balance of flavors that pairs wonderfully with rosé. Add fresh mint and a squeeze of lime for extra depth, enhancing the wine’s fruit-forward profile.
- Margaux’s Halibut Ceviche: Rosé’s crisp acidity and red berry flavors complement the richness of halibut in this bold and fresh ceviche. The combination of fresh lime and orange juice, heat from the jalapeño, crisp corn and avocado will make you craving more summer nights.
- Pan con Tomate: The best, easiest appetizer for summer! Add this to your cheese board for your aperitivo hour featuring your favorite rosés.
- Grilled Summer Vegetables: Rosé’s versatility makes it an excellent match for grilled vegetables. Serve a colorful array of zucchini, bell peppers, summer squash, onions, and cauliflower, seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Pepernota on Country Bread: These flavorful vegetables pair beautifully with a dry rosé from Provence. Made with a variety of veggies like tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers, onions, and garlic, it complements the wine’s herbal and floral notes.
- A Classic Cheeseboard: Rosé is the perfect match for your cheese board for many reasons. Your cheeseboard will have an array of cheeses, fruits, nuts, maybe some olives, etc. and you want a wine that is versatile. Cue Rosé! Read more on the best wine for Charcuterie here.
These sommelier-approved recipe pairings highlight the versatility of rosé wine and are sure to enhance your dining experience this Spring.
Looking to explore a variety of rosé wines from around the world? Be sure to sign up for our Shades of Rosé 2024 Collection – It’s a mini rosé subscription April-September where you’ll receive 4 rosé wines per month.
Looking to learn more about rosé? Check out the book Rosé All Day, which would also make a great wine gift with a bottle of rosé!
What glassware should you use when drinking rosé? At Argaux, there are no rules! But, there are glasses made specifically for rosé if you’re a serious rosé enthusiast. Check out Riedel Sommeliers Rosé wine glasses.
