Quality Rosé is not made by blending red and white wine together. The pink color is created by a very short period of skin contact with red grapes – usually between 10 minutes and 10 hours. The longer the soak, the deeper the color.

Grenache and Pinot Noir are the most popular choices of grape variety, but Rosé can be made from any red grape or blend, anywhere in the world. The most fashionable examples, however, are found in Provence, France.  Though not a requirement in many regions, most rosé wines are dry.  Off-dry pink wines are usually categorized as Blush.