Rosé isn’t just for sun-soaked beach days and BBQs—it’s also the perfect companion for those cosy autumn evenings when the air turns crisp, and we start reaching for our jumpers. While many associate rosé with summer, the versatility of this blush-hued beauty makes it ideal for sipping well beyond those warmer months. As the leaves change, so can our wine preferences, leaning towards rosés with more depth and complexity that pair beautifully with heartier autumn dishes.
So, which rosé wines should you be sipping this autumn? Let’s explore the best rosé grape varieties to enjoy in the cooler season, the right temperature to serve them at, and which delicious dishes to pair them with.
1. Grenache Rosé: A Warm Embrace for Crisp Evenings
Grenache rosé is a quintessential choice for autumn. This grape variety, known for producing vibrant, fruit-forward wines, brings a bit more body and warmth to the glass than your typical summer sippers. Grenache rosés often feature notes of ripe strawberries, raspberries, and a hint of spice—a perfect reflection of the autumn harvest.
As the weather cools, serve this rosé just a little warmer than you might in summer—around 10-12°C (rather than fridge cold). This allows the wine’s richness and subtle spice to shine through.
Perfect Food Pairing:
Pair Grenache rosé with roasted root vegetables and autumn squashes, or a roasted chicken with herby stuffing. The wine’s fruitiness and gentle spice will complement the savoury flavours beautifully.
2. Syrah Rosé: Earthy and Bold for Autumn Nights
Syrah rosé, often darker in colour than your average pink, packs a punch with earthy, smoky notes and a burst of dark berry fruit. It’s a great choice for those evenings when you’re cooking up something more substantial. Syrah rosé has more structure and tannins than other varieties, making it a perfect transition wine from summer to autumn.
As with Grenache, you don’t want to serve Syrah rosé too cold. Aim for 12°C, which will highlight the complexity of the wine and keep those warming, earthy tones at the forefront.
Perfect Food Pairing:
Think autumnal comfort food—hearty lamb stew or a mushroom risotto. The wine’s boldness pairs wonderfully with the richness of these dishes, cutting through the fat and enhancing the savoury umami flavours.
3. Sangiovese Rosé: Autumn’s Italian Star
If you love a rosé with a bit more acidity and zest, then a Sangiovese rosé is your go-to for autumn. The Sangiovese grape, often associated with red wines like Chianti, makes a wonderfully crisp and refreshing rosé that still has enough body to carry you through the cooler months. Expect flavours of tart cherries, cranberry, and a touch of herbal earthiness.
For autumn, keep this rosé slightly chilled at around 10°C to balance its acidity with the warmth of autumnal meals. It’s a great option for those wanting a bit more freshness in their wine without losing that autumnal feel.
Perfect Food Pairing:
Sangiovese rosé pairs excellently with classic autumn dishes like roast pork or a butternut squash and sage pasta. The wine’s acidity will cut through the richness, while its cherry notes add a lovely contrast to the savoury elements.
4. Mourvèdre Rosé: A Rich and Spicy Option
For something with serious autumn appeal, Mourvèdre rosé is a fantastic option. Mourvèdre grapes produce rosés with darker fruit flavours—think blackberries and plums—along with a distinct spiciness and a hint of savoury meatiness. These wines tend to be fuller-bodied and have a robust structure, making them perfect for sipping by the fire as the nights draw in.
Serve Mourvèdre rosé around 12-14°C to really let the rich flavours open up. It’s the sort of wine that can stand up to big, bold dishes, making it an ideal autumn companion.
Perfect Food Pairing:
Mourvèdre rosé is an excellent match for grilled meats or even a beef stew. Its boldness complements the intense flavours, while the wine’s underlying acidity helps keep everything balanced.
5. Tempranillo Rosé: Autumn in a Glass
Tempranillo rosé, often hailing from Spain, brings a distinctive autumnal vibe to your wine glass. Known for its flavours of red berries, tomatoes, and spices, this rosé has a bit more savoury character, making it a great choice for cooler weather. The wine’s earthy, herbaceous notes bring to mind the changing leaves and hearty meals we crave in autumn.
At around 10-12°C, Tempranillo rosé is beautifully balanced—refreshing enough to enjoy before dinner yet rich enough to pair with more substantial meals.
Perfect Food Pairing:
Pair Tempranillo rosé with tapas, like roasted peppers, chorizo, or a Spanish tortilla. It’s also a great match for grilled sausages or a hearty vegetable paella.
As the temperatures drop and autumn arrives in all its glory, rosé wine doesn’t have to be left behind with the summer sun. By choosing rosés made from heartier grape varieties like Grenache, Syrah, or Mourvèdre, you’ll find a perfect balance of fruit, spice, and warmth to enjoy throughout the cooler months. Just remember to serve them at a slightly warmer temperature to fully appreciate their depth and complexity. Whether you’re settling in for an evening by the fire or hosting a cosy dinner with friends, these autumn-friendly rosés are the perfect choice.
So, crack open a bottle, pour yourself a glass, and savour the season!