Discreetly pink, like the first blush on the cheek of a ripening peach. Rewardingly aromatic, with echoing scents of sun-ripe peach and apricot mingling with a titillating hint of cranberry and a trace of sandalwood.

Saturday 8 June 2019 is widely regarded as International Rosé Day and judging from the description above, the Creation Rosé is certainly worth a celebration. The 2018 vintage comprises 80% Grenache Noir and 20% Viognier both of which represent pioneering first plantings in the Hemel-en-Aarde. Ever so gently pressed and fermented in stainless steel tanks, the wine resembles the famous Provençalstyle of Rosé. But with a distinct difference derived from the unique Creation terroir.

Cellarmaster JC Martin explains: “Our Grenache Noir and Viognier vines benefit from our 450-million-year-old clay derived Bokkeveld shale soils as well as a long, sunny ripening season balanced by a cool night index of 12 degrees less than the daytime temperature. These conditions mean that we harvest fresh, fruity but not overripe grapes.”

Creation pairing expert Carolyn Martin is especially pleased with the complexity and crisp fruit character of the wine. “On the well-balanced palate cool-climate freshness is the first impression. The stone-fruit on the nose follows through, beautifully offset by a mélange of berry fruit. Although vivaciously crisp the wine is soft and round with a gently persisting nuance of butter on the lingering aftertaste.”