I don’t often write about individual wines but this one really did blow me away for a number of reasons. Firstly, I have never been a fan of pinot grigio, nor Rosé and this is both! But pour me another glass of the Perlé de Jean from Van Loveren!

The Perlé de Jean Pinot Grigio 2018 has an alcohol content of only 12% and boasts a beautiful, elegant and romantic pale rose petal colour with a bright hue. On the nose its notes of raspberries, strawberries, redcurrant, ripe citrus and melon with a gentle lemon undertone. It is crisp with a good grip and fine extract and boasts elegant fruit and lingering persistence on the palate.

“This dry, slightly-sparkling wine is a pure expression of summer and will partner very well with pork chops and grilled peaches, summer salads, sushi, grilled vegetables and fresh berries,” say Johline Barnardt, brand manager for Perlé deJean. “The unique Perlé style gives the wine a slight fizz, which adds an extra refreshing appeal, and is guaranteed to be the talk of the town. This is exciting for consumers and winemakers alike, and there’s no doubt about it, Rosé wines are sexy!”

The popularity of Rosé is a female-driven movement that has lured more men and found popularity “beyond beach-front enclaves”, says Johline. The popularity of this category has resulted in hashtags in the USA (#brosé for bro’s that like the drink), fad brands and celebrity-backed extensions (the new Rosés from actress Drew Barrymore).

The Perlé de Jean Pinot Grigio 2018 is available from Makro outlets nationwide at R69.99 per bottle. It is also available from selected Ultra Liquors, Prestons Liquor, Bluebottle Liquors, Ok Grocers, Liquor City, Tops, SSK, Spar and Overland Liquor outlets across the country.