Somewhere between the elegant lightness of white wine and the rich character of red lies a sophisticated drink that captivates with its color, freshness, and balance — rosé wine. While often seen as a seasonal choice, rosé has long surpassed its status as a “summer wine” and firmly established itself as a standalone wine category with fans across the globe.
Rosé is not just a trendy afternoon drink — it’s the result of a specific winemaking method, a long history, and a careful selection of grapes. While many perceive it as simply “a lighter red,” the variety of rosé wines is richer than one might expect. From dry rosé and sweet rosé to creative summer cocktails like rosé prosecco spritz, this wine offers surprising diversity in taste and style.
The History of Rosé
The roots of rosé wine date back to ancient times, but its modern evolution began in 19th-century France. It’s believed that rosé originated as a variant of "Claret" — a pale red Bordeaux wine beloved by the British. Back then, lighter wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot were seen as more refined and easier to enjoy.
Over time, rosé began to develop its own identity, especially in regions like Provence, Languedoc, and the Loire Valley. Local grape varieties such as Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah formed the basis for some of the most refreshing and balanced rosé wines, combining acidity, lightness, and vibrant fruity aromas. Today, rosé is a true wine institution — accessible, versatile, and increasingly appreciated by both professionals and enthusiasts.
What Types of Rosé Are There?
The diversity of rosé wine stems from both grape varieties and winemaking techniques. Generally, rosé is produced through brief skin contact (maceration) between red grape skins and juice. The longer the contact, the deeper the color.
Dry Rosé
Dry rosé is the most popular style worldwide. Often crafted in France and Spain, it usually blends grape varieties such as Grenache, Sangiovese, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Pinot Noir. The result is a pale pink wine with aromas of raspberry, strawberry, grapefruit, and subtle herbal notes. It’s elegant, refreshing, and perfect as an aperitif or paired with Mediterranean cuisine.
Southern France is the global leader in dry rosé production, with Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon setting the standard. Rosés from these regions are known for their complexity and crisp acidity, making them appealing year-round — not just in summer.
Sweet Rosé
For those who enjoy softer, fruitier flavors, sweet rosé offers a pleasant alternative. It’s made by halting fermentation early, leaving residual grape sugar in the wine. Popular examples include White Zinfandel, Pink Moscato, and White Merlot — all known for their sweetness, bold fruit notes, and lower alcohol content.
Sweet rosés are typically served well-chilled and pair beautifully with desserts, fruits, or for those just beginning to explore the world of wine. While they may be less common on premium wine lists, they maintain a solid following among those who enjoy light and approachable wines.
Summer Cocktails with Rosé
One of rosé’s biggest strengths is its versatility. In addition to being enjoyed on its own, it also features in some of the most popular summer cocktails. A trendy example is the rosé prosecco spritz — a fun and refreshing drink that combines the lightness of rosé with the sparkle of prosecco, often garnished with fresh fruit and ice.
If you're searching for a bar in Sofia where rosé is served with care and expertise, BESO Bar & Dinner welcomes you with a carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails. Our menu features refined French rosés as well as Bulgarian rosé wines, all presented with professional flair and crafted in original recipes.
At BESO, we believe every sip should be an experience. That’s why we invite you to discover our summer cocktails, enjoy the crisp freshness of a perfectly chilled rosé, and unwind in the greenery of our garden. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just looking to explore, we’ll help you find the perfect rosé for your taste.