Audrey Wilkinson 2023 Rosé

As the weather warms and the days grow longer, there’s no better time to reach for a bottle of rosé, a wine that embodies the spirit of spring and summer. Audrey Wilkinson’s 2023 Rosé, crafted from a blend of Hunter Valley Shiraz, Merlot, and Verdelho, is a standout choice for those seeking a vibrant and refreshing wine to enjoy during the upcoming season.

A Vintage Defined by Resilience and Expertise

The 2023 growing season in the Hunter Valley was anything but ordinary. The year began with cool, wet conditions and above-average rainfall during spring, which posed significant challenges for grape growers. The increased disease pressure required careful vineyard management to ensure healthy fruit. Fortunately, the weather cleared in late December and early January, giving way to sunnier days that provided near-perfect ripening conditions. The result is a vintage marked by intense flavours, freshness, and natural acidity, all of which shine through in the 2023 Rosé.

Winemaking: Precision and Freshness

The winemaking process for the Audrey Wilkinson 2023 Rosé was focused on preserving the fresh fruit character and vibrant acidity that define this wine. The grapes were top-loaded into the press and immediately pressed off to achieve the perfect pale pink colour, with just the right amount of skin contact. This early pressing also helped to capture the delicate aromatics that make this rosé so appealing.

After pressing, the juice was cold-settled for 48 hours, allowing impurities to settle before the clean juice was racked off for fermentation. The fermentation process took place at cool temperatures in stainless steel tanks, using an aromatic yeast strain that enhanced the wine’s fresh fruit aromas. The wine was then lightly fined, filtered, and bottled quickly to retain its youthful freshness and vibrant character.

Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Summer Flavours

The Audrey Wilkinson 2023 Rosé is a visual and sensory delight, beginning with its pale pink colour, which is accented by subtle salmon hues. On the nose, the wine offers lifted aromas of strawberries, cranberries, and a hint of fresh figs, creating an enticing bouquet that invites you to take the first sip.

The palate is where this rosé truly shines. It’s vibrant and juicy, with flavours of ripe strawberries and red cherries that dance on the tongue. The wine’s natural acidity adds a zesty freshness, leading to a refreshingly dry finish that lingers pleasantly. This is a rosé that captures the essence of summer in a glass, offering a perfect balance between fruitiness and crispness.

Food Pairing: Versatile and Delicious

One of the joys of a well-crafted rosé is its versatility when it comes to food pairings, and the 2023 Rosé from Audrey Wilkinson is no exception. Its bright fruit flavours and zesty acidity make it an ideal companion for a wide range of dishes. Pair it with a fresh seafood platter, featuring oysters, prawns, and smoked salmon, or serve it alongside a vibrant salad of mixed greens, figs, and goat cheese.

For a more substantial meal, this rosé pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork, particularly when accompanied by fruit-based sauces or glazes. It’s also a wonderful choice for a picnic, where it can be enjoyed with charcuterie, cheeses, and fresh fruits.

Conclusion: A Rosé for Every Occasion

Audrey Wilkinson’s 2023 Rosé is more than just a seasonal wine; it’s a celebration of the Hunter Valley’s resilience and winemaking expertise. With its vibrant fruit flavours, refreshing acidity, and elegant finish, this rosé is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a casual afternoon with friends or hosting a more formal gathering.

As you plan your spring and summer activities, be sure to include a few bottles of this delightful rosé. Its ability to inform, educate, and entertain the palate makes it a standout choice for the warmer months ahead. So, pour yourself a glass, savour the flavours, and let the Audrey Wilkinson 2023 Rosé transport you to a sunlit vineyard in the heart of the Hunter Valley.

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