Sparkling salmon hues fill the glass as the season’s last BBQs beckon in Barrie. Flat Rock’s Twisted Pink Rosé 2024 makes a persuasive case for one final toast under the summer sky, connecting the region’s celebrated wine scene to those cherished late-August afternoons by the grill.
Niagara has become a haven for luminous rosés, but Flat Rock’s Twisted Pink Rosé stands out with a confident, deep pink. Crafted mostly from Gamay with a dash of Merlot, this 2024 vintage reveals more presence and structure than the paler, more ephemeral styles sometimes found on Ontario shelves. It feels tailor-made for the end of summer, when flavours and friendships both crave a little more depth.
What arrives in the glass is a vibrant medley: notes of red cherry, raspberry, green apple and watermelon tumble forward, balanced by the tart edge of rhubarb and the brightness of lime. There’s a whisper of fresh herbs, a nod to the kitchen garden, which makes every sip feel like a conversation between the wine and whatever is cooking nearby. For Barrie residents, where backyard BBQs remain an essential ritual, this wine’s fuller body and lively acidity mean it’s not just refreshing—it’s a match for grilled chicken burgers or a slab of salmon pulled off the cedar plank. Even sushi, with its combination of rice, fish, and wasabi, finds a willing partner here.
Visually, Twisted Pink is magnetic—its deep salmon shade glows in the summer light, inviting the hand to reach for another glass. Place it at the centre of a table scattered with late tomatoes, charred corn, and laughter, and it becomes more than a wine. It’s a celebration of the season’s last hurrah. At $17.95, it’s a practical indulgence for anyone looking to elevate their gathering without extravagance.
For those final summer BBQs in Barrie and beyond, Flat Rock’s Twisted Pink Rosé 2024 encapsulates the pleasure of warm evenings and easy company. Make it your companion as you savour the last embers of summer, and let Niagara’s finest linger into autumn. For more local wine discoveries, Barrie’s shelves brim with stories waiting to be uncorked.
Sponsored by:
Wine Journeys and Trent Mayers, whose aim is to allow wine lovers to slow down, connect, and experience the joy of wine and food pairings
