Summer’s on the way so why not try some of these unusual rosés?

There is no doubt our love affair with rosé shows no sign of slowing. The past decade has shown an extraordinary growth in the sales of rosé wine, whether it be still or sparkling. As if to prove a point there was even a consortium of Italian winemakers last year which launched a campaign to urge the creation of a rosé wine emoji – currently there is only one for red and sparkling wine, so white misses out too.

So with summer just about here the shelves are awash with rosé. But if you are looking for something a little different here a few lesserknown wines.

I have long thought Yalumba’s Y Series is one of the best value and most interesting range of sub-£10 wines available and Yalumba Y Series Sangiovese Rosé 2021, South Australia (The

Wine Society £8.25) is one more of the unusual rosés you may taste this summer, a classic Italian red variety from South Australia. It really is a pretty pale pink colour in the glass. The bouquet offers summer red berries, orchard blossom and just a hint of soft green herb, the palate has more red berries and crushed cranberries as well as a twist of fresh citrus acidity on the finish. You could serve this with a tomato salad or a lunchtime selection of antipasto. Unless you have holidayed on the Dalmatian coast, rosé from Croatia is not something you may have come across. However, the delicious Kutjevo

Rosé 2020, Slavonia (Laithwaites £14.49 or £12.49 when you mix

12 or more) is definitely worth seeking out.

The Kutjevo winery dates back to 1232 and now, fully modernised, is recognised as one of Croatia’s finest producers. A pinot noirbased blend, it is pale in colour with an aromatic nose of strawberries, rose petals and citrus. This follows on through to the fresh, lively palate along with crisp acidity and a long, elegant finish. This would work well with some simply cooked salmon or chicken and a salad.

Ramón Bilbao Rosado 2021,

Rioja (Tesco £8) is a rosé that just gets better with every vintage and at this price over-delivers. This is the modern style of Rioja rosé, and a lovely alternative to southern French rosés. It is mainly garnacha with a little viura added to the blend. The nose is full of wild strawberries, nectarines and limes, followed by some lovely fresh acidity along with summer berries and almost a little creaminess, followed by a crisp, dry finish. Try this with some mezze style dishes or maybe even a seafood paella. n Alistair Gibson is proprietor of Heritage Cellars. Call 07712 669973 or e-mail alistair@heritagecellars.co.uk