Novum Rosé 2025 is a dry, food-focused rosé from Marlborough's Southern Valleys, made with more attention to texture and structure than the region's usual fruit-forward pink wines. It sits closer to a serious white in style than a summer cooler, built more for the table than the pool deck.

Red berry and watermelon lead the nose, with a savoury, herbal edge underneath and a faint hint of citrus. The palate is dry and textural, red fruit present but restrained, more about structure and texture than overt sweetness.

Acidity is fresh and precise, carrying the wine through a long, savoury finish that lingers longer than most rosé, closing on a faint mineral note that lingers well.

It matches well with charcuterie, grilled prawns, or a salad with soft cheese — food that needs a wine with real backbone rather than just easy fruit, and enough texture to hold its own at the table rather than fading into the background.

Drink it over the next year or two while its fresh, savoury character is at its best.