Rosé lights up The Clock Hotel as Spring settles in

Guests to Surry Hills’ iconic Clock Hotel will be transported to the Loire Valley from October 27 to October 30 with the Rosé Room. For four days, a dedicated space will be transformed into a glamorous setting full of fresh flowers, decorations and featuring designs influenced by the magnificent Loire region of France to showcase four exquisite French Loire rosés.

Because, while rosé is good all year round, sipping on fruity, floral and fresh wine is (way) better enjoyed as the weather warms up!

A special selection of Rosés from the Loire has been chosen for the event, exemplifying the breadth and history of France’s third-largest wine region. Clock Hotel chef Luke McEnallay has prepared a selection of dishes to pair with the wine offering.

Featuring wines and pairings

Rosé d’Anjou “Les Ligériens” has a gorgeous sunset blush, and a fruity nose with hints of red currant, fresh grapes and strawberries. Its long fruity aftertaste pairs best with bold flavours such as cheese.

Chef McEnallay’s pairing: blue cheese platter served with cornichons, flatbread and toasted sourdough.

Rosé de Loire wines are light and refreshing, transitioning from a nose with aromas of red berries and white pepper to flavours of peach, apricot and passionfruit in the mouth. Rosé de Loire “Thibaud Boudignon” has good length and mineral complexity, while Rosé de Loire “Réserve des Vignerons” is slightly sparkling. Both have a vibrant, rich pink colour, and hold their own paired with charcuterie.

Chef McEnallay’s pairing: saucisson and salumi platter from Pino’s Dolce Vita Butchery in

Kogarah, plus flatbread and toasted sourdough.

To drink as an aperitif or to round off the meal, Crémant de Loire Brut Rosé “De Chanceny” is a sparkling rosé wine produced according to the traditional method. It has a lively bouquet featuring fresh cherry and wild strawberry aromas.

Chef McEnallay’s pairing: The sparkling rosé will be served with a petit four of chocolate and orange salted caramels.

In addition to the special dishes designed to pair with the wines, a full menu from the Clock Hotel will also be available, featuring classic pub meals with a French twist. The dishes augment the wine pairing menu, offering entrees and substantial mains.

The Rosé Room pop-up begins on Thursday October 27 and runs to Sunday October 30. The entrance is free and everybody (adults only) is welcome. Specials will be available during the pop-up, and guests will have a chance to win bottles of Loire rosé through an Instagram competition.