This is one of Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference wines and caught my eye as I spend part of each year in the Bordeaux region. It’s a Merlot rosé produced by a large co-operative based in Tutiac, which is in the Blaye/Bourg corner of the Gironde, facing the legendary vines of Pauillac across the estuary. Pink wines are on the increase in this part of France, but quality can be variable. This example is a pale russet in tone, with a hint of cranberry on the palate. It’s light and agreeable drinking but lacks the elegance and charm of those famed Provençal pinks. However, at only £6.50 from your local supermarket it would be a perfectly acceptable choice for a barbecue or picnic.

About this Vineyard

The Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Bordeaux Rose is made by Les Vignerons de Tutiac, the Bordeaux cooperative founded in 1974 that has grown to become France’s largest producer of AOC wine, uniting over 400 winegrowers across the Gironde. This elegant dry rose is produced from Merlot grapes and fermented in stainless steel, delivering pure, clean fruity notes of fresh strawberry and pear with a smooth, creamy palate — and it has picked up Bronze medals at both the International Wine and Spirit Competition and the International Wine Challenge.

About The Author

I’m Rosalind and I’m here to talk to you about Rosé. Whether it’s your first choice or your last on a wine list, this site is for you. After years of writing about and tasting wine, there is something truly special to me about the pink stuff. On the Rose Report, I write reviews of the best Rosé Wines. You can find out more about me HERE.