Rosé production is divided into two primary methods. In the southern France regions of Provence, the wine purists rely on the direct press method. The Languedoc-Roussillon region is home to the saignée method. This method tends to produce higher-end red wines.
Keep reading to learn why you need to try saignée rosé and what this pink delicacy is all about.
What Is Saignée Rosé?
Saignée (“sohn-yay”) is a winemaking method in which a portion of red wine juice is ‘bled’ off immediately after being in contact with the skins and seeds. This type of rosé is considered a byproduct of red wine making. This is purely because of its ability to increase the concentration of red wines.
However, this wine isn’t a wallflower. It’s unique because it’s darker in color and bolder than other rosés. It’s also a tad bit stronger than the usual bottle of blush. Those who don’t favor an ordinary rosé will like the fuller, robust personality of this wine.
How is it produced?
- Once the red wine grapes reach the peak of ripeness for winemaking, they’ll be picked
- Grapes are then softened through a crushing method. Afterward, the pulp is placed in a fermentation vat
- In just two days (at maximum) a portion of the grape juice is bled off
- It’s then left to finish fermenting on its own
- Oak barrels are usually the go-to for aging. It’ll add to its overall texture and richness
Saignée Roses To Try
Now that you’re more or less on the saignée bandwagon, let’s see what the market has to offer. Better yet, let’s dive straight into what you must try first.
Chinon Saignée
The Loire Valley first became famous for its red cabernet franc wines. It then later branched out into saignée rosé. Expect a beautifully wild and tangy wine filled with aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and subtle notes of licorice and herbs.
Compared to other wines from the Loire region, this vino stands out as being more medium-bodied. This is because this varietal’s grapes are picked at optimal ripeness when the winemaking process starts.
As a rule, a typical rosé is picked a bit earlier. However, with this wine, you can expect a riper fruit experience and a wider body on the palate. Expect to spend up to $15 per bottle.
Cabernet Sauvignon Saignée
Napa Valley is home to an array of varietals. You’ll be able to source superb cabernet sauvignon saignée from this region. The color is deep (bordering on blood red). Therefore, it’s much more intense in appearance.
This body of this vino is similar to that of red wine. Winemakers usually like to make use of neutral oak to help boost its flavor. You can expect a bouquet of flavors like cherry, raspberry, pink peppercorn, and a dash of green bell pepper. The wine is often somewhat oily or waxy mid-palate.
If you opt for this varietal, drink it immediately as it tends to quickly become flabby. This is due to the lack of acidity in the grapes. Wines range anywhere between $20 and $30 per bottle.
Syrah Saignée
Any region that produces a stellar Syrah and GSM blend will most likely have some saignée on the side to show off. The Syrah Saignée is by far the most intense of all rosé wines (that includes tempranillo rosé). You can expect a rich texture and color.
It’s probably the aromas that’ll leave you swooning. It’s a seductive blend of raspberry and cherries. It also has savory notes of white pepper and bacon. You’ll fork out around $20 to $30 per bottle for this truly remarkable wine.
Where Can I Buy Saignée Rosé?
- Gold Medal Wine Club - Free shipping on six bottles or more, no minimum orders
- The California Wine Club - Ambassador referral program, no hidden fees
- WSJ wine Club - No commitment, money-back guarantee
- Winc - Complimentary shipping on boxes of four or more, no long-term commitment
Conclusion
For now, rosé may remain the ultimate summer drink. However, saignée is starting to give it a run for its money. There are those who believe that the maceration method is the only way that’s “truly” rosé. Let’s be clear, saignée is a wine that’s similar to other byproducts. It tends to be darker, bolder, and richer than a glass of traditional pink wine. As you can now see, there’s no need to push this glorious drink to the side.