TE WĀ WINES | Rosé | 2023
merlot

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Te Wā Wines was founded by two passionate wine enthusiasts, who shared one vision – to create limited edition wines that would showcase the unique terroir of southern Moldova.
Today we are going to review a quite refreshing rosé wine from the Stefan-Voda, which is Moldova’s most famous wine region – Rosé 2023 by Te Wā Wines. This is a low intervention rosé wine, made only with merlot grapes, where the oenologist controls the winemaking process without leaving his fingerprint on the final wine, leaving the grapes and the place to tell the story. Rosé itself is a bizarre wine category, as it isn’t exactly a red wine, nor is it a white wine – it is something in between. The secret to the pinkish hue of the rosé wine is found in the skins of the red grapes and more exactly in the anthocyanin pigments. When making a red wine, the skins spend the entire fermentation in contact with the juice, for rosé however the process is shortened, for example pinot noir usually spends around 4 to 6 hours on the skins, to produce its trademark pale salmon hue, while cabernet sauvignon needs only a few minutes to make that rich, deep-pink color. Their commitment to low intervention winemaking and a focus on quality has quickly set them apart in the global wine industry, earning respect for their craft and the character of their offerings.

The Stefan-Voda wine region is renowned for its warm continental climate, which allows for optimal grape ripening. The soil is rich in minerality, comprising clay and limestone that provides excellent drainage and supports vital nutrients for the vines. This unique soil composition, combined with the region’s distinct microclimate, contributes to the expressive character of the wine, especially suited for red grape varieties.

color: pale peach color
clarity: hazy salmon hues

The wine presents a pale peach color with delicate hazy salmon hues that invite the eye. The wine also display a slightly cloudy aspect, suggesting a wine that has been filtered only slightly in order to preserve its full expressivity on the nose.

intensity: pronounced & expressive
fruit character: ripe

On the nose, this rosé wine feels pronounced and expressive, showcasing a ripe fruit character. The aromatic profile bursts forth with berry fruits such as acacia cherry, raspberry, and strawberry. In the background, one can detect hints of candy drops, that add further complexity.

sweetness: off dry | acidity: high | alcohol: medium+ | tannin: low | balance: good
finish: medium- | aftertaste: crisp & zesty

The palate is crisp and zesty, reflecting the bright acidity characteristic of a well-made rosé wine. It offers a ripe fruit character complemented by notes of berry fruits and a hint of fruit candy, leading to an off-dry sensation in the mouth. The well-integrated alcohol and a touch of ripe tannins contribute to a medium finish, resulting in a refreshing aftertaste that lingers with a vibrant crispness.

maturity: in its prime | drink now | do not age
verdict: fine | highly recommended | a wine of premium quality

Overall, this is a refreshing and light rosé wine that is incredibly juicy and expressive. However, it lacks the elegance and finesse typically associated with premium rosé wines. This one is clearly in its prime form, making it perfect for immediate enjoyment, ideal for summer gatherings or casual sipping.

TE WĀ WINES | Rosé | 2023
variety: merlot
country: Moldova
region: Stefan Voda
rating: 92.5

This rosé wine would pair lovely with a variety of dishes, particularly light summer fare. Consider serving it with a fresh salad topped with berry vinaigrette, grilled shrimp, or a charcuterie board featuring a selection of cured meats and cheeses. The bright and zesty nature of the wine will enhance the flavors of these dishes and create a harmonious contrast to all the rich flavors in the dish.

‘Te Wā’ translates from Maori as ‘time will tell’ – a fitting name that embodies the commitment to patience and quality in winemaking. Moldova is home to a rich wine-making history and is recognized as one of the oldest wine regions in the world, with evidence of viniculture dating back over 4,000 years.

© The WineStatistics ratings are based solely on our own knowledge of the world of wine and on our personal wine tastes, which may, or may not, differ from yours – the reader. Just remember that there are no absolutes of right and wrong in wine appreciation. Cheers!