August is BC Rosé Month, and there’s no better way to explore this versatile wine than by visiting the Scenic Sip Wine Trail in Lake Country, BC. With six wineries currently featuring rosé wines, you're in for a treat. From light and delicate to bold and complex, the range of rosés on offer will surprise and delight your palate. This is the perfect time to explore what makes BC rosé so special.
Why Rosé in August?
August in the Okanagan Valley means warm sunshine, vineyard views, and fresh summer produce—perfectly complemented by a crisp, refreshing glass of rosé. BC Rosé Month celebrates the incredible versatility of this wine, from light and delicate to bold and full-bodied, crafted by our local wineries. It’s time to set aside any misconceptions and discover just how dynamic rosé can be.
Misconceptions About Rosé
There are a few myths surrounding rosé that we need to clear up. First, rosé isn’t just a “sweet wine.” In fact, BC rosés can range from dry to off-dry, with many crafted to highlight fresh acidity and vibrant fruit flavors. Rosé is made by using red grape varietals, and the winemaker’s touch creates a wide variety of hues and flavor profiles, from pale pink, to deep salmon or even dark, vibrant pink.
And for those thinking rosé is just for summer sipping or for certain palates—think again! Rosé pairs well with a variety of foods and occasions, making it a wine for everyone. Whether you’re picnicking, grilling, or celebrating, there’s a rosé for that.
Pairing Rosé: The Options Are Endless
The beauty of rosé lies in its versatility. Light rosés pair beautifully with salads, seafood, and light pastas, while more robust rosés can stand up to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even rich pastas. Rosé’s balanced acidity and fruit-forward profile make it a great companion to many meals.
And don’t forget dessert! A slightly sweeter rosé is perfect with fresh fruit or a light summer tart. The possibilities are endless, and the flavors of a well-paired rosé will elevate your dining experience.
Photo Credit: Gray Monk Winery
Explore the Scenic Sip Rosé Offerings
Grey Monk Estate Winery
Odyssey Rosé Brut 2019, VQA:
This sparkling rosé, crafted from Gamay Noir, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, offers bright red berries, crisp apple, and a subtle yeastiness. Perfect for toasting or pairing with seafood.
Latitude 50 Rosé 2023, VQA:
A smooth and refreshing dry rosé made from Gamay Noir, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and Pinot Gris. Coral pink with flavors of red berry, cherry, and watermelon, it pairs beautifully with summer salads and seafood.
50th Parallel Estate Winery
2023 Estate Pinot Noir Rosé:
With an electric pink hue, this dry, juicy rosé presents aromas of strawberry, red cherry, cranberry, and vanilla. Flavors of cherry and watermelon lead to a delightful finish of almond pastry.
Ancient Hill Estate Winery
2021 Rosé:
A blend of 60% Zweigelt and 40% Baco Noir, this rosé features vibrant color with spicy, strawberry, cranberry, citrus, and floral aromas. It is soft and refreshing on the palate, finishing with a hint of red cherry.
Blind Tiger Vineyards
Hush Up Blush:
A French-style rosé made from 100% Pinot Noir, bursting with cranberry and raspberry flavors. Balanced, and off-dry it’s ideal for seafood or sipping on its own.
Rosé Wine Slush: A customer favorite - enjoy your rosé frozen this summer with a delicious way to beat the heat!
Intrigue Wines
Social Rosé:
This fruity and vibrant rosé blends Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Rotberger, Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir. Bursting with strawberry and cranberry, it’s perfect for picnics and social gatherings.
I Do Sparkling Rosé:
Offering aromas of freshly picked strawberries, raspberries, and a hint of honeysuckle on the nose. The crisp acidity of Riesling elevates the plump berry character of Merlot and the ripe tropical aromas of Gewurztraminer.
Peak Cellars
2023 Pinot Noir Rosé:
A unique blend of Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Gamay with notes of cranberry and lime, with delicious strawberry jam and vanilla ice cream on the palate. Featuring 16-hour skin contact, this off-dry rosé offers a delightful balance of flavors.
2023 Pink Granite Rosé:
A more mineral-driven rosé, thanks to the pink granite, that also has 16-hour skin contact. This drier style, reminiscent of a French rosé, offers lavender on the nose and soft cranberry flavors on the palate.
Join Us This August
As you celebrate BC Rosé Month, there’s no better place to experience the diversity of rosé than on the Scenic Sip Wine Trail. Whether you’re enjoying a tasting, grabbing a bottle to take home, or pairing your wine with a delicious meal, there’s something for everyone here.
Explore the wineries, taste their unique rosé offerings, and discover just how versatile and exciting BC rosé can be. Cheers to August and to BC Rosé Month!
Photo Credit: Peak Cellars
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