A Wine Expert’s Take on Meghan’s Rosé: Is It Worth the Hype?

Last month, Meghan Markle launched her own Napa Valley rosé, named "As Ever," as a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah. Retailing for £22 ($30) per bottle, the launch coincided with Diana’s birthday and is part of her broader lifestyle brand which includes fruit spreads, herbal teas, and other culinary products.

The rosé, described as "effortlessly elegant," is meant for leisurely afternoons and outdoor gatherings. At 14.5% ABV, it’s positioned as a premium wine. To evaluate "As Ever," The Telegraph enlisted Diane Gross, a wine expert and owner of Washington DC’s Cork wine bar, to conduct a blind tasting of the rosé alongside two other wines.

In her tasting, Gross noted that the wine had a pleasant, desirable pink color common in many popular rosés. She detected aromas of cooked red fruits, cherries, and spice, despite finding the alcohol taste slightly overwhelming at times. While she wouldn’t select it for a dinner party, Gross acknowledged one wouldn’t feel embarrassed presenting it, suggesting it has decent value for its price.

Throughout her evaluation, Gross maintained skepticism about celebrity wines, but recognized that Markle seemed genuinely involved in the product’s conception and branding.

Opinions from other tasters at the event varied. One taster favored Markle’s rosé for its bold flavor and velvety texture but criticized its aroma as more artificial. Another preferred the other entries, describing Meghan’s offering as aggressive in taste.

Overall, while reactions to "As Ever" were mixed, it displayed intentional thought behind its creation, showcasing Markle’s effort to represent California through her brand.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!