We love the Oaks Hotel in Neutral Bay, so much so, that it ranked one of our top venues in 2017. When we heard of a new event being hosted at the Oaks, called ‘Stop and Smell the Rosés’, we were there in a heartbeat. Th3 venue is perfect for this type of event.

 

 

This event was a Rosé Masterclass, held on 21 March and was a trail of Rosé tastings, paired with light and refreshing canapés. It was a time to try a number of different Rosé options, whilst having a educational experience about each one. 

 

We enjoyed 5 Rosé options from different regions of Australia and France. With each wine, the host explained the origins of the wine, flavours and textures and we had time to take it all in, pair it with our food and socialise. 

 

Rosé is becoming increasingly popular as it is light and it can pair with all foods. Their flavours hint at floral tones, citrus and they don’t need rich foods, it can accompany a light meal or snack and is very refreshing for that afternoon drink. 

 

We began with my favourite of the night, because who doesn’t love bubbles! This was the Josef Chromy ‘Pepik’ Sparkling Rosé NV, Relbia TAS. Josef is a pioneer of wine in Tasmania and this is a popular Sparkling Rose. Rose gets its flavour and colour from contact with the skin. In this particular wine, only had a little bit of skin contact, mainly Pinot Noir. The rose with a light salmon colour, tasting floral features and a hint of strawberries. The Josef Chromy ‘Pepik’ Sparkling Rosé NV is vibrant, easy to drink, and is a great aperitif. Regarded to be the perfect pairing with salmon or light seafood, this was paired with oysters and a delicious Viniagrette. 

 

The second wine was the Oakridge ‘Over the Shoulder’ Rosé 2017, Yarra Valley VIC. This wine ranking in James Halliday’s top 100 wines. It pinkish/orange in colour and has a rich and flesh style, rosehip, redcurrant and pear with spiced blood orange to finish. 

This wine is great to accompany a salads, this was nicely paired with smoked trout on sourdough with diced beetroot and radish. 

 

Next came the Lane Rosé 2017, Adelaide Hills SA. This is a blend of Shiraz, Merlot, pinot noir and reisling. Its colour has lychee and bright salmon Hues throughout. It’s flavour exudes poached rhubarb, strawberry and rose petal flavours with other tones of watermelon and pink grapefruit. A dry savoury finish. This one is also Vegan friendly. This wine pairs well with lightly cooked shellfish or cheese. This was in contrast with some super tasty mushroom and cheese Arancini balls, cutting nicely through the flavours.

 

Followed up with the Hancock and Hancock Grenache Rosé 2017, McLaren Vale, SA – savoury notes and a touch of rose petal. It is Bright, crisp and medium bodied. This wine, by Chris Hancock, deputy executive Chairman of Robert Oakley Vineyards. Using fruits sourced by the Vineyards at McLaren Vale region, it showcases Grenache fruits, pomegranate and sour cherry, with a bit of sugar to balance the tartness. It has a delicious finish and an attractive bouquet of flavours. We had this paired with tempura prawns which was perfectly suitable.

 

 

To finish, was the Mirabeau ‘La Comtesse’ AOC, Cote de Provence FRANCE. This is the company’s highest selling and we can see why. It is like angels dancing on your tongue. Intense fruit body and aromas, red berry fruit with strawberry and raspberry flavours. A balanced and fresh acidity. This was paired with a delicate salmon mousse atop a mini potato rosti. 

 

This marked the end of the experience and overall we loved being introduced to some new wines and it inspired a love of Rosé. We will certainly consider Rosé as a choice for when we host our next soiree or for a light seafood pairing. 

 

At $42 this class and dining experience is incredibly reasonable value for money. Thanks to event organiser Amy for yet another great event and to the Oaks for hosting.

 

The Oaks Hotel

181 Military Road