Tsantali Rose D'Estelle

Tsantali Rose D'Estelle is a Greek rosé wine made from Roditis grapes, bottled at 12% ABV in a standard 750ml format. Formerly labeled as Roditis D'Estelle, this expression spotlights one of Greece's most distinctive pink-skinned indigenous varieties in a light, approachable style.

Quick Facts: ABV: 12%  |  Origin: Northern Greece  |  Style: Dry Rosé  |  Producer: Tsantali Vineyards & Wineries

Production & Heritage

Tsantali Vineyards and Wineries is one of northern Greece's prominent wine estates, with vineyard holdings spread across five distinct regions: Agios Pavlos in Halkidiki, Metochi Chromitsa in Mount Athos, Maronia in Thrace, Rapsani near Mount Olympus, and the historic Naoussa appellation. The Rose D'Estelle is crafted entirely from Rhoditis — a pink-skinned grape that occupies a unique place in Greek viticulture, traditionally used for both white and rosé wines. The variety's natural berry-toned skin pigment gives this rosé its color without requiring extended maceration, resulting in a lighter, more delicate style of pink wine.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Initial impressions bring fresh pink florals followed by soft red stone fruit. The bouquet is straightforward and inviting, leaning toward ripe peach and subtle wild rose.

Taste: The palate is fruit-driven, entering with clean red stone fruit flavors — think nectarine and light cherry. Mid-palate, the wine stays bright and uncomplicated, carrying a gentle acidity that keeps things crisp without sharpness.

Finish: The finish is short and clean, with lingering traces of stone fruit. There is little tannic grip, giving the wine a smooth, easy-drinking conclusion.

How to Drink Rose D'Estelle

Serve chilled between 8–10°C (46–50°F) to bring out the fruit aromatics while preserving the wine's delicate structure. This rosé is best enjoyed on its own or as a light aperitif. It also works well in a Rosé Spritz — combining the wine with a splash of sparkling water and a citrus twist for a refreshing warm-weather sipper. For a Frosé, the clean fruit profile freezes and blends smoothly with a touch of simple syrup and fresh lemon. In a Sangria Rosada, the stone fruit character pairs naturally with sliced peaches, strawberries, and a measure of brandy.

Best For

• Casual summer dining on the patio or poolside
• Introducing friends to Greek indigenous grape varieties
• Pairing with light Mediterranean appetizers at a dinner party
• An everyday weeknight rosé that doesn't demand overthinking

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Rose D'Estelle taste like? It is a fruit-driven rosé dominated by red stone fruit flavors like nectarine and light cherry, accented by pink floral notes. The palate is clean and uncomplicated, with a crisp, short finish.

How does Rose D'Estelle compare to other Greek rosés? While many Greek rosés rely on Xinomavro or Agiorgitiko grapes that deliver deeper color and more tannic structure, Rose D'Estelle uses Roditis — a pink-skinned variety that yields a lighter, more delicate style. This makes it more floral and fruit-forward than many of its bolder Greek counterparts.

Is Rose D'Estelle good for everyday sipping? Yes — its straightforward fruit profile, moderate 12% ABV, and clean finish make it well-suited as a casual, easy-drinking rosé that requires no special occasion.

Where is Rose D'Estelle made? Rose D'Estelle is produced by Tsantali Vineyards and Wineries, a northern Greek wine estate with vineyards spanning Halkidiki, Mount Athos, Thrace, Rapsani near Mount Olympus, and the Naoussa region.

What foods pair well with Rose D'Estelle? Grilled shrimp or calamari complement the wine's light acidity. Fresh Greek salad with feta and olives echoes its Mediterranean origins. Prosciutto and melon mirror the stone fruit character. Light hummus and pita offer a simple textural contrast. Soft, mild cheeses like fresh mozzarella or young goat cheese work well without overpowering the delicate flavors.

What sizes does Rose D'Estelle come in? Rose D'Estelle is available in the standard 750ml bottle format.

Is Rose D'Estelle worth the price? Rose D'Estelle positions as an entry-level rosé within Tsantali's portfolio, making it an accessible introduction to Greek wine without a significant financial commitment. It delivers solid value for casual drinking and warm-weather entertaining.

Why Rose D'Estelle?

What sets this wine apart is its single-variety focus on Roditis, one of Greece's most historically significant yet internationally underappreciated grapes. Where many commercial rosés rely on Grenache or Syrah, Rose D'Estelle offers a distinctly Hellenic alternative — lighter in body, floral in character, and rooted in the terroir of northern Greece. Tsantali's multi-region vineyard holdings across some of Greece's most respected growing areas lend credibility to even their most approachable bottlings. For anyone looking to explore Greek wine beyond Assyrtiko and Agiorgitiko, this rosé provides an easy and affordable starting point.