Every year, I meticulously curate a list of my top 10 Rosé wines, drawn from the diverse selection I’ve had the pleasure of tasting and evaluating. This year’s lineup showcases a spectrum of styles, from various regions and grape varieties, each crafted with unique winemaking techniques. For me, the hallmark of a truly exceptional Rosé lies in its harmonious balance – a vibrant acidity and refreshing crispness that complements a captivating depth of flavour and textural complexity. This combination ensures an utterly satisfying and enjoyable drinking experience, particularly as we embrace the warmer months.

 

I would like to invite you to taste this lineup with me in Queenstown on 20 February, details are in the link:

https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/e/1224330919739

 

In no particular order, here’s my Top 10 Rosé of 2025:

 

Te Kano Life Rosé 2023, Central Otago Founded by Rhonda Lloyd, Te Kano is an excellent achiever in Central Otago over a short period of time. Te Kano Wines embodies a philosophy of environmental stewardship, historical preservation, and a commitment to producing high-quality wines while respecting the unique landscape of Central Otago.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop Te Kano Wines.

 

 

 

m.a.u Pink Ensemble Rosé 2023, Clevedon

m.a.u wines is the passion project of Marc Alexander Udy, a seasoned winemaker with experience in New Zealand, Australia, and Burgundy. After years of working with renowned producers, he finally established his own label in 2021 with his partner Camilla. m.a.u wines represent the culmination of Marc’s years of experience and his dedication to crafting exceptional wines that showcase the unique character of New Zealand’s vineyards.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop m.a.u Wines.

 

 

 

Soho Family Vineyards Westwood Rosé 2024, Waiheke Island

Soho Wines collaborates with talented New Zealand winemakers to create premium wines that reflect their unique style. Utilising their Carter Family Vineyard on Waiheke Island, produce high-quality fruit by sustainable viticulture practices. Check out their Waiheke Island cellar door that serves their critically acclaimed wines & casual SOHO Street Food bites.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop SOHO Family Vineyard Wine​s.

 

 

 

Hawkshead Pinot Rosé 2023, Central Otago

Hawkshead Wines is founded by Denis Marshall, a fourth-generation farmer with a passion for horticulture and conservation. The winery’s name and the use of Swainson’s bird illustrations on their labels pay homage to his legacy and contribute to the preservation of his artistic and scientific contributions.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop Hawkshead Wines.

 

 

 

Misha’s Vineyard The Soloist Pinot Rosé 2024, Central Otago

The Soloist is a regular on the Top 10 Rosé list, but this vintage 2024 has a slight change in style. Less extraction from grape skins resulted in a lighter colour, and a smaller portion of juice was fermented in older oak. Nonetheless, it’s expressive, well-made, and delicious.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop Misha’s Vineyard Wines.

 

 

 

Terrace Edge Rosé 2024, Waipara Valley

Founded in 1999, Terrace Edge is a family-run boutique winery in New Zealand renowned for its organic viticulture. They cultivate nine grape varieties, employing sustainable practices like manual care, biological sprays, and the introduction of beneficial organisms. This commitment to organic farming has earned them the “New Zealand Organic Vineyard Champion” title twice.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop Terrace Edge Wines.

 

 

 

Scutt Wines Flowers Pinot Rosé 2024, Nelson

Scutt Wines is a boutique winery founded by Johnson Scutt, Johnson’s culmination of 25 years of study, travel and winemaking adventures led him to start his own boutique vineyard in the Orinoco Valley in Moutere Valley near Nelson. The wines are meticulously crafted with care and passion, reflecting Johnson’s extensive knowledge and global experience. The wines are beautifully presented with labels featuring paintings by Johnson’s wife, artist Georgie Hoby Scutt.

 

Read full review here.

Shop Scutt Wines.

 

 

 

Wooing Tree 2024, Central Otago

The Wooing Tree Vineyard was nearly lost before its owners discovered its local significance. This iconic tree, with a history of romance, was saved thanks to a community effort. Now, it’s a beloved landmark, appearing on the winery’s logo and attracting couples for proposals and weddings.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop Wooing Tree Wines.

 

 

 

Coal Pit Pinot Noir Rosé 2024, Central Otago

Coal Pit is another regular in my Top 10 Rose lineup, consistently receiving top scores. This 100% Pinot Noir is crafted from hand-harvested grapes from a high-elevation site. Winemaking techniques include whole bunch pressing, light foot-stomping, and slow, cool fermentation to preserve aromatics and create a complex and textural wine.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop Coal Pit Wines.

 

 

 

Monte Christo Winery Rosé 2024, Central Otago

Monte Christo Winery has a rich history dating back to 1864 when French pioneer Jean Désiré Féraud established the estate, laying the foundation for Central Otago’s wine industry. 150 years later, a serendipitous discovery by the Paris family led to their acquisition of the winery, where they now carry on Féraud’s legacy by producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of Central Otago.

 

Read the full review here.

Shop Monte Christo Wines.