Crushing on Rosé – Our Top South African Rosé Wines

Words: Crush

Rosé isn’t just a summer fling; it’s great all year round. The crisp acidity, the delicate notes and the signature blush hue – there’s something undeniably charming about it. Whether you prefer yours zesty with a whisper of sweetness or berry-forward and dry, choosing the right one comes down to more than just the colour. The terroir, the grape varietals and the winemaker’s touch all shape the final sip.

To celebrate our standout local selection, we’ve rounded up some of the best South African Rosé wines on the market. There’s a bottle and pairing for every occasion. Salut!

Big Easy Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé

From the world-renowned Helderberg region of Stellenbosch comes an award-winning range of wines owned by South African golf legend Ernie Els and skilfully crafted by winemaking legend Louis Strydom. Confidently New World, the label focuses on producing premium Cabernet Sauvignon wines and Cabernet Sauvignon-based blends, including their newly released Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé from the Big Easy collection.

This refreshing, elegant wine embodies the flavours of summer. Bursting with notes of fresh cherries, yellow peaches, pineapple and zesty orange, it celebrates the versatility of the iconic varietal and pairs perfectly with light dishes. With its approachable style and vibrant fruit flavours, it’s an easy-going and generous wine style.

Winemaker’s Note: Inviting scents of forest berries, sour cherries and cranberries float on the undertow of melon, summer strawberries and nectarine.
Grapes & Region: Comprised of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon (aged for three months in French oak barrels) and 10% Cinsault, sourced from Stellenbosch, Helderberg.
Perfect Pairing: This light and invigorating wine pairs perfectly with this White Chocolate & Rose Water Panna Cotta with Rosé Fruit Compote.
Vibe & Occasion: A relaxed lunch or celebratory occasion with family and friends.
Something Unique: A harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon – which lends structure and depth – and Cinsault, which enhances its bright red fruit character.
Serving Tip: Enjoy slightly chilled at lunch or dinner.
RSP: R125.00 (1 x 750 ml; 13.25% ABV); R750.00 (6 x 750 ml) | SHOP HERE
*Free delivery for all local orders within South Africa on purchases over R500.00.

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La Motte Vin de Joie Rosé 2024

La Motte Wine Estate in Franschhoek was named after the Provençal village of La Motte-d’Aigues and therefore found the inspiration for its popular Vin de Joie Rosé wine in the famous pink wines of Provence. Whether enjoyed while visiting the estate or when relaxing at home, this delicate and sophisticated wine is made to celebrate life’s everyday joys.

A popular choice in the Franschhoek Valley and beyond, this dry yet velvety Rosé has a delicate complexity with well-defined notes of melon and grapefruit, an elegant mineral complexity and a delightful aftertaste of ripe nectarine.

Winemaker’s Note: The palate is polished and juicy on entry with a charming acidity bringing freshness and length. A fresh nectarine aftertaste lingers on the palate.
Grapes & Region: A blend of 64% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 6% Shiraz and 1% Cinsault. The grapes are from different districts in the Western Cape. The Grenache is from Stellenbosch; the Mourvèdre and Cinsault from Franschhoek and the Shiraz from Elim.
Perfect Pairing: A refreshing partner to seafood, punchy salads and more. Enjoy it with these Braaied Chicken Kebabs with Lemon Labneh & Green Salad.
Vibe & Occasion: Al fresco dining, braai occasions and snacks by the pool.
Something Unique: Different terroirs are represented in this wine, including three of the main mother rock formations in South Africa: decomposed variations of shale, granite and Table Mountain sandstone.
Serving Tip: Serve chilled.
RSP: R125.00 (1×750 ml; 12.65% ABV) | SHOP HERE

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Jakkalsvlei Pinotage Rosé 2024

Jakkalsvlei, meaning ‘Jackal’s Marsh’, is a family-owned winery situated along the Garden Route, near the rural village of Herbertsdale. The land has been farmed by the Jonker family since 1972 and since 2008 their wines have been bottled under ‘Jakkalsvlei’, taking its name from the foxes, jackals and wildcats surrounding the Langeberg Mountains.

Crafted by winemaker Louis van der Riet, Jakkalsvlei Pinotage Rosé 2024 is made from Pinotage vines that have matured since 2013 on the valley floor, thriving in predominantly sandy-loam soil. These vines yield big bunches of grapes with lighter-coloured berries, perfectly suited for crafting this award-winning Pinotage Rosé bursting with fresh fruit-forward flavours.

Winemaker’s Note: This rosé has a light rose petal, blush pink colour. The palate is smooth and quenching with fine sweet red berry flavours, balanced acidity and a dry-fruity finish.
Grapes & Region: Pinotage sourced from Herbertsdale, Garden Route.
Perfect Pairing: Fresh berry notes make this wine a stellar choice alongside sweet treats, summer salads, cheeses and fruit tarts. Savour it with this Plum & Vanilla Tarte Tatin.
Vibe & Occasion: Social occasions and lingering lunches.
Something Unique: The bouquet shows elegant, soft flavours of candyfloss, rose petals, fresh red cherries and strawberries.
Serving Tip: Serve slightly chilled to experience the wine’s full flavour.
RSP: R660.00 (6 x 750 ml) | SHOP HERE
*Buy any box of wine and one box of Pinotage Rosé for free delivery.

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Alto Wine Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé 2024

Alto Wine Estate is the oldest red wine producer in South Africa. Situated on the slopes of the picturesque Helderberg Mountain, they have become renowned for their Cabernet Sauvignon, making Alto Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé their only non-red wine.

Their Rosé captures the taste of summer in a glass, making it the ideal wine to enjoy on the last of the sunny days ahead. This stellar wine has a beautiful onion petal colour, with captivating aromas of fresh strawberries, white peach and delicate floral nuances.

Winemaker’s Note: The palate is beautifully balanced with crisp acidity, vibrant red berries and a touch of minerality on the finish.
Grapes & Region: Made of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, from Helderberg, Stellenbosch.
Perfect Pairing: Excellent on its own or served with seafood and summer salads. The balanced acidity makes it a great match for this Savoury Tomato and Feta Crostata.
Vibe & Occasion: Best enjoyed during picnics and al fresco dining occasions.
Something Unique: Alto Rosé has a beautiful bouquet of rose petals and crushed berries.
Serving Tip: Serve chilled and enjoy as is.
RSP: R135.00 (1 x 750 ml; 13% ABV) | SHOP HERE

alto.co.za | Facebook | Instagram

Graham Beck Brut Rosé

In the heart of Robertson Valley, where sun-drenched days and cool nights shape the vines, Graham Beck has spent decades perfecting the art of Cap Classique – South Africa’s answer to the world’s finest sparkling wines. Crafted in the traditional method used for French Champagne, every bottle undergoes a secondary bottle fermentation, ensuring a refined mousse, depth and complexity that sets Graham Beck apart.

Surrounded by rolling vineyards and limestone-rich soils, nature’s rhythm is captured in every bubble, and an unwavering commitment to quality defines each bottle. Their winemakers carefully select vineyard parcels across the Western Cape to create wines that seamlessly balance terroir, tradition and innovation.

The Brut Rosé, part of the Classic Collection, is a delicate blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, matured on the lees for exceptional finesse. Layers of red berries, fresh lavender and subtle minerality unfold with every sip – an elegant expression of Graham Beck’s pursuit of the perfect bubble.

For those who seek craftsmanship, heritage and precision, this is Cap Classique at its finest, a sparkling icon worthy of life’s grandest moments.

Winemaker’s Note: A lively mousse with fine bubbles and subtle red berry flavours enlivened by bright acidity. Brisk yet delicate on the palate.
Grapes & Region: A multi-regional, multi-clonal selection of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier from various Western Cape vineyards and the estate itself.
Perfect Pairing: This elegant and versatile Cap Classique pairs brilliantly with zesty desserts, berry-forward dishes, fresh flavours and more, making this Succulent Lamb Noisette with Rocket, Beetroot & Citrus Salad a spectacular pairing.
Vibe & Occasion: All seasons and settings – social gatherings, brunch and festive moments.
Something Unique: The unique silver-pink hue is obtained from an enzymatic reaction during the journey of the Pinot Noir fruit to the cellar.
Serving Tip: Enjoy chilled.
RSP: R1320.00 (6 x 750 ml; 12.52% ABV) | SHOP HERE

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Eikendal Rosé 2024

Nestled on the foothills of the Helderberg Mountains, Eikendal Vineyards makes distinctive wines with character. Crafted under the skilled hand of winemaker Aldert Nieuwoudt, their Eikendal Rosé is a beautifully dry expression made from Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault – sourced from three vineyard blocks planted exclusively for Rosé production.

This careful selection results in a delicate onion-skin hue and a sophisticated profile. Fresh strawberries and raspberry flavours present on the nose and the palate. The wine has a full mouthfeel, with an understated acidity and a long, pleasing finish.

Winemaker’s Note: After one night of settling, the juice was carefully drawn from the primary lease. It was clarified right after fermentation and bottled very early to ensure vibrant flavours with good acidity and mouthfeel.
Grapes & Region: Comprised of 45% Grenache, 34% Mourvèdre, 12% Cinsault and 9% Merlot, harvested from the Helderberg Mountains.
Perfect Pairing: This refreshing and lively wine pairs well with light lunches, smoked salmon, cheese and berry desserts. Enjoy it with this fragrant Olive, Onion & Goat’s Cheese Tart.
Vibe & Occasion: Elevated lunches.
Something Unique: Grapes were handpicked early in the morning to retain fresh flavours.
Serving Tip: Best served between 12 ºC and 14 ºC.
RSP: R145.00 (1 x 750 ml; 12.66% ABV) | SHOP HERE

eikendal.com | Facebook | Instagram

De Grendel Rosé

Nestled on the fynbos-covered slopes of the Tygerberg, with breathtaking views of Table Mountain, lies De Grendel, a historic family-run estate known for producing exceptional wines. Under the expert guidance of cellar master Charles Hopkins and winemaker Morgan Steyn, De Grendel continues to craft wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Their De Grendel Rosé is a vibrant expression of summer – elegant, refreshing and beautifully balanced. Made entirely from Pinotage grapes – renowned for producing fine, fruit-driven Rosé – aromas of hibiscus, watermelon and apricot stand out in this stellar wine.

Winemaker’s Note: This Rosé imparts a lively burst of bright fruit and zesty acidity, creating a smooth mid-palate and an enticing, lingering finish.
Grapes & Region: 100% Pinotage, sourced from Agter-Paarl.
Perfect Pairing: Chilled, light dishes and desserts pair brilliantly with this wine, making this Frosé Raspberry Granita with Vanilla Ice Cream and Berries the ideal companion.
Vibe & Occasion: Al fresco dining and drinks with friends on vibrant evenings.
Something Unique: This lighter-style wine is achieved through one to two hours of skin contact, followed by settling and racking before cold fermentation at 14 °C.
Serving Tip: Serve chilled.
RSP: R100.00 (1 x 750 ml; 13.73% ABV) | SHOP HERE

degrendel.co.za | Facebook | Instagram

Daniel Colombo Wines Rosie 2024

Founder Daniel Colombo takes a unique approach to winemaking, pouring passion and intention into each bottle produced. With cultivars sourced from vineyard blocks across the Western Cape – from Citrusdal to Bot Rivier to Swartland – Colombo Wines showcases the flavours of each terroir.

Rosie, a wine commissioned by his namesake daughter after she asked, ‘Why not make a pink wine?’ captures her zest for life. This beautiful blend of Colombar and Cinsaut grapes celebrates two traditional workhorses of South African viticulture, intended to change minds and redefine minimal intervention-style Rosé. Best enjoyed among good people alongside great food, Rosie 2024 is for those who love to savour the simple joys of life.

Winemaker’s Note: A texture-driven wine that boasts a spicy pallet with a rounded full mouth of peaches and lime. It’s bloody delicious!
Grapes & Region: A blend of Colombar and Cinsaut, sourced from Paarl and Swartland, respectively. The direct-pressed Cinsaut comes from old organic bush vines.
Perfect Pairing: A great partner to spicy dishes, Rosie pairs stunningly with this fragrant bowl of Pork & Pink Lady Apple Meatballs in Thai Red Curry Sauce.
Vibe & Occasion: Big and small gatherings with loved ones.
Something Unique: The must is kept fleshy and textural. After malolactic fermentation, the wines were blended and returned to barrels before bottling.
Serving Tip: Serve chilled and close your eyes as you take the first sip.
RSP: R195.00 (1×750 ml; 11% ABV) | SHOP HERE