Magnum of Holden Manz, Rothko Rosé, Franschhoek, South Africa, 2019 – 1500ml

And in the impossibly pale, almost translucent, pink corner we have the challenger from South Africa. Holden Manz have focussed their rosé efforts on giving the French something to worry about in the premium sector. Rothko, named after the owners’ son, is derived from the traditional Provençal blend of Grenache, Cinsault & Syrah.

This is a sunshine spec rosé with an ethereal salinity on the nose that begs a marriage with fresh sea air & a big pot of mussels. Wet stone, violet, peach & pear.