A deep dive into our 2024 Rosé of Pinot Noir – 90 points

At Sean Minor Wines, crafting high-quality wines isn’t just our goal, it’s our pride and passion. Every bottle we produce reflects careful intention, deep respect for the fruit, and the quiet confidence of knowing when to let the wine speak for itself. Our 2024 Rosé of Pinot Noir is no exception, and we are so proud that it’s being recognized by many.

This fan-favorite is almost sold out, and for good reason. With delicate layers, bright freshness, and incredible versatility, it’s quickly become a year-round essential. But the recognition doesn’t stop there, our 2024 vintage has also earned Gold and 90 Points from the International Women’s Wine Competition.

Celebrating Women in Wine

What makes this award even more meaningful is the panel behind it: the International Women’s Wine Competition is judged entirely by women winemakers, sommeliers, beverage buyers, journalists, and industry educators. These experts evaluate wines based not only on technical merit and quality, but also on their appeal to women buyers and drinkers.

As a winery with many women behind the scenes and leading the way, we’re proud to support a competition that uplifts and highlights female perspectives in wine.

Meet the Woman Behind the Rosé

This wine is the result of thoughtful, hands-on work from Elle Minor, our winemaker and a second-generation steward of Sean Minor Wines. Elle brings both expertise and good vibes to the cellar (trust us that’s important), managing every step of the winemaking process, from vineyard sourcing and harvest timing to fermentation monitoring and blending.

She’s been instrumental in shaping each varietal in our portfolio since she joined the team, and this Rosé is a reflection of her dedication and style: fresh, expressive, and beautifully balanced. Championing Elle’s efforts and growth is something we’re committed to, not just this season, but always.

Q&A With Elle the Winemaker

What winemaking techniques do we use for our Rosé, and how do they shape its style?

For our 2024 Rosé, we harvest most of the Pinot Noir early to keep acidity high and sugars low which is key to a bright, lower-alcohol style. We also use a small portion of the saignée method, where we “bleed off” some juice from the cold-soaking Pinot Noir tank. This limited skin contact gives the Rosé its salmon-pink hue without over-extraction, while also concentrating the red wine. The saignée adds a bit more structure, body, and bold flavor, which balances beautifully with the fresh, delicate character of the pressed juice. We end up with an expressive and rich wine while still maintaining that Rosé acid and delicate profile from the pressed juice that we all love.

Why is it called Rosé of Pinot Noir?

Because it’s made with 100% Pinot Noir fruit from vineyards along the California coast. Pinot is a highly expressive grape with naturally high acidity, perfect for Rosé. It’s also a favorite in the Minor household. We love it for its bright red fruit characteristics, like strawberry and cherry, which bring a refreshing quality while still allowing the wine to remain complex, elegant, and nuanced.

What are some of the biggest decisions you make during Rosé production, from harvest to bottling (timing, fermentation temps, aging vessels)?

Harvest timing is very important for the fruit we directly press into our Rosé blend. We watch very closely during the growing season to maintain bright acidity and moderate sugar levels. Cool and slow fermentation in stainless steel drums preserves purity and steers Rosé towards retaining floral and fruity aromatics–more delicate profiles. Skin contact of the Saignee portion is up to 24 hours; however, the majority fruit when pressed directly sees about 2-4 hours on skin depending on the press cycle, tasting as we go to ensure we are not overextracting at the end of the press cycle.

When you pour a glass of our Rosé, what do you want people to experience?

I want people to feel immediate freshness that simultaneously brings a sense of ease and crisp, lively acid to the palate. Rose is one of the most versatile wines so it should feel approachable for any meal or experience. We make wines so you can strengthen connections and spend time with the people you love. We hope every sip of our Rosé of Pinot Noir reminds you that you’re Always Invited. You can enjoy it whenever, with whomever, and maybe alongside something delicious—because to us, wine is about connection, comfort, and most importantly creating memories while you enjoy it!

Don’t Miss the Final Bottles

Whether you’re pairing it with grilled seafood, picnic fare, or simply enjoying a chilled glass on a sunny patio, our 2024 Rosé of Pinot Noir brings crisp acidity, vibrant fruit, and that signature elegance our fans have come to love.

With limited cases remaining, we invite you to stock up while you still can!