Rosé has been described as “romance in a bottle”. Versatile and elegant, this popular wine style has been gaining ground all over the world among both male and female oenophiles, and this has led to a whole plethora of varieties being used to produce it.

The latest variety to join this wine style in South Africa is Pinot Grigio, and Van Loveren Wine Family Vineyards in the Robertson Valley decided to dedicate South Africa’s first Perlé-styled Pinot Grigio Rosé to the late Retief matriarch, Jean, who was well-known for her love of gardening and the lush garden she, with husband Hennie, established at the estate, starting in 1939. This passion is reflected in the label design of the Perlé de Jean Pinot Grigio 2018.

Many of the trees were planted to commemorate special occasions, and therefore the Van Loveren garden includes specimens that represent historical events, political figures, eleven grandchildren, head-boys and head-girls, graduation ceremonies and other achievements. The garden is still intact and visited by thousands of tourists each year.

The Perlé de Jean Pinot Grigio 2018 has an alcohol content of only 12% and boasts a beautiful, elegant and romantic pale rose petal colour with a bright hue. “It displays a fine nose with enticingly fresh notes of raspberries, strawberries, red currant, ripe citrus and melon with a gentle lemon undertone,” explains winemaker Chris Crafford “It is medium in weight, crisp with good grip and fine extract, and boasts elegant fruit and lingering persistence on the palate.” 

“This dry, slightly-sparkling wine is a pure expression of summer and will partner very well with pork chops and grilled peaches, summer salads, sushi, grilled vegetables and fresh berries,” adds Johline Barnardt, brand manager for Perlé de Jean. “The unique Perlé style gives the wine a slight fizz, which adds an extra refreshing appeal, and is guaranteed to be the talk of the town. This is exciting for consumers and winemakers alike, and there's no doubt about it, Rosé wines are sexy!”

The popularity of Rosé is a female-driven movement that has lured more men and found popularity “beyond beach-front enclaves”, says Johline. The popularity of this category has resulted in hashtags in the USA (#brosé for bro’s that like the drink), fad brands and celebrity-backed extensions (the new Rosés from actress Drew Barrymore).

The Perlé de Jean Pinot Grigio 2018 will be available from Makro outlets nationwide from September 2018 at R69.99 per bottle, as well as directly from Van Loveren via thewinehub.membernet.co.za.

For more information visit www.vanloveren.co.za.

Issued by: ON THE MARQUE PR & COMMUNICATIONS
Pictures: SUPPLIED 



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