Rockburn’s beloved Stolen Kiss Rosé 2026 is back, blushing and ready to steal hearts (and glasses) for its twentieth dazzling season.
Born out of a cheeky moment in 2006 when winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis “stole” some Pinot Noir grapes destined for Rockburn’s Central Otago flagship Pinot Noir, this flirty pink creation quickly became one of New Zealand’s most adored rosés. So adored, in fact, that a single years absence in 2007 sparked such longing, it’s been a summer essential ever since.
Crafted from 100% Central Otago Pinot Noir, the 2026 vintage is bright, breezy, and utterly irresistible. Bursting with playful notes of candy-floss, strawberry, crème brûlée, and a cheeky hint of toffee apple, it’s a juicy, joyful ode to sunshine, long lunches, and precious moments.
Sam Kim, The Wine Orbit (95/100 & 5 Stars) - "Elegant and delightfully appealing, the bouquet reveals apricot, sweet strawberry, Gala apple, and white-flower nuances, followed by a finely flowing, juicy, lively palate. Beautifully styled and expressed, offering fabulous drinking. At its best: now to 2028. $33.00. www.rockburn.co.nz. Sept 2026."
The New Zealand Wine Directory | JB (Excellent)- In the glass, glossy clear, & pretty pale salmon pink coloured. In the nose it’s inviting & fresh with aromas of sweet raspberries, strawberries & cream, ‘toffee apple’ & smoker lollies as well. On the palate, sweet red cherry & red berry fruit flavours, there’s a creamy, silky mouth-feel & the crisp citrus acidity is balanced with 9.5 g/L RS resulting in a delicious, long juicy off-dry finish. A very quaff-able, ‘lip smacking’ rosé.
Cameron Douglas MS (91/100) - "The 20th release of this wine - a style that resonates with so many rosé fans - aromas and flavours of fresh red and white strawberry, red apple skin and a light stony mineral quality. A just dry wine with a generous creamy satin mouthfeel with fine fruit tannins framed by acidity and core youth freshness. A wine for Summer and the next two years ahead. Best from day of purchase through 2029."
