Rosé has evolved into one of the wine world's most dynamic categories, with styles ranging from delicate and refreshing to complex and food-friendly. While Provence continues to be the benchmark for many drinkers – and drives supermarket sales – some of the best rosé wines now come from further afield.
Winemakers in regions such as the Rhône Valley, Corsica, Sicily, Greece, Australia and New Zealand are producing vibrant, characterful examples that often deliver exceptional value for money. The wines in this tasting demonstrate just how broad the category has become, ranging from light, crisp apéritif styles to structured, pairing-friendly rosés that can comfortably hold their own at the dining table.
How the tasting was conducted
With supermarket shelves and online retailers offering more choice than ever, finding the right bottle can feel overwhelming. I tasted a range of widely available rosés priced under £20, focusing on quality, value and drinkability.
The selection includes a benchmark Provence rosé from Mirabeau, a budget-friendly Négrette from Sainsbury's, and a Corsican rosé from Cintu, among others. Each bottle was assessed on its flavour profile, versatility, and overall drinking experience.
Top picks for every occasion
The Mirabeau X Rosé, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, 2025, priced at £13 from Sainsbury's, was named the best overall. It is a blend of 12 varieties, including Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Caladoc, Rolle and Cinsault, offering perfumed white peach, plum and blossom, with ripe red berries and grapefruit on the palate.
For a budget option, the Sainsbury's Fronton Negrette, 2024, at £8.75, delivers fresh and fragrant notes of juicy peach, bright citrus and tangy raspberry. Produced from the Négrette grape, primarily found around Fronton near Toulouse, it offers a characterful alternative to more familiar rosé styles.
The Cintu Île de Beauté Corsican Rosé 2025, at £10 from Ocado, is recommended for alfresco dining. A blend of Sciaccarellu, Niellucciu and Grenache, it offers delicate aromas of raspberry, watermelon and rose petal, with a slightly fuller body than a typical Provence rosé.
For those seeking a Provence rosé, the Château d’Estoublon Roseblood Rosé 2025, at £16.50 from Tesco, was named the top rosé in Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2025. Co-owned by Carla Bruni and Nicolas Sarkozy, it offers flavours of white peach, wild strawberry and pink grapefruit.
Beyond the pale pink stereotype
The Etna Rosato D.O.C M&S 2024, at £14 from Ocado, is made from 100 per cent Nerello Mascalese and delivers an intense palate of lemon zest, redcurrant and wild Mediterranean herbs. It is structured and savoury in style, with more in common with an orange wine than a simple rosé.
The Guigal Côtes du Rhône Rosé 2023, at £14.50 from Amazon, is fuller-bodied than many Provence rosés, combining ripe strawberry and raspberry fruit with a subtle savoury edge. Produced by one of the Rhône Valley's most renowned estates, it pairs well with grilled meats and Mediterranean cuisine.
For a richer style, the Melpo by Muses Estate Greek Rosé 2024, at £14.99 from Laithwaites, is more copper than pink, closer in style to a light red. A blend of Syrah and Roditis, it pairs with barbecued lamb and Mediterranean herbs.
The Amie Rosé, Pays d’Oc, 2024, at £18.99 from Selfridges, was created during the COVID-19 lockdown by friends who wanted to capture the joy of sharing wine. A blend of 85 per cent Grenache and 15 per cent Cinsault, it is soft and approachable, ideal for long summer lunches.
For a sparkling option, the Waitrose Loved & Found Vermentinu Rosé Brut NV, at £9.50 from Waitrose Cellar, is a limited edition with notes of honeysuckle, lychee and jasmine. The Muja Rioja Rosado 2025, at £13.25 from Waitrose Cellar, is a dry rosé made from Garnacha, Viura and Tempranillo grapes.
The Bird in Hand Pinot Rosé, Australia 2024, available as a case of 12 for £90 from Waitrose Cellar, is predominantly Pinot Noir with aromas of wild strawberry, red apple and white pepper. The Queen Côtes de Provence Rosé 2025, at £18 from Sainsbury's, is a blend of 70 per cent Grenache and 30 per cent Cinsault.
If you're looking for the best all-rounder, Mirabeau X Rosé 2025 delivers exceptional quality and value, while Amie Rosé 2024 is a great choice for summer gatherings. For food lovers, Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Bandol Rosé 2025 stands out for its depth and gastronomic appeal, while Etna Rosato DOC 2024 offers something more adventurous. At every price point, these wines prove that today’s rosé is far more than a seasonal drink.
