Is Meghan Markle’s “As Ever” Rosé a Must-Try?

The launch of the Duchess of Sussex’s American Riviera Orchard brand has brought considerable attention to her signature “As Ever” rosé, prompting wine enthusiasts and casual consumers alike to question whether the product lives up to its celebrity pedigree. As with any famous personality’s venture into the food and beverage industry, the actual merit of the wine itself risks being overshadowed by the media frenzy surrounding its release.

Rosé wines hold a distinct spot in the drink industry, frequently viewed as friendly summer beverages that balance between white and red wine tastes. The “As Ever” brand joins a bustling market of celebrity-endorsed liquors, where the quality ranges significantly; from outstanding artisanal creations to superficial ventures relying on renowned personalities. Initial feedback indicates Meghan’s product sits in the middle of these two ends – it doesn’t transform the field but also does not disgrace itself.

Professional evaluators of wine who have tasted this vintage describe its light salmon color, typical of Provence-style rosés, along with taste descriptions featuring strawberry, citrus peel, and a delicate floral scent. The equilibrium of tartness and fruity notes seems intentionally designed to appeal widely rather than test the taste buds, indicating the product was made with a general consumer audience in mind rather than wine connoisseurs searching for depth. Priced around $30 each bottle, it establishes itself as an upscale but not extravagant choice, competing with known brands in the “better rosé” segment.

The production specifics highlight the careful decisions that define this brand. The grapes, originating from vineyards in Santa Barbara County, take advantage of California’s optimal conditions for producing rosé — warm days tempered by ocean breezes that maintain essential acidity. The winemakers are esteemed experts with backgrounds at prominent wineries, reflecting a dedication to quality beyond just attaching a well-known label to mass-produced wine. Nonetheless, a few critics contend that the price is somewhat higher than the quality warrants, implying that buyers might be paying a small surcharge for the Meghan connection.

Market response has been predictably polarized. Supporters praise the wine’s drinkability and elegant packaging, while skeptics dismiss it as another celebrity cash grab. More neutral observers suggest it’s a perfectly competent, if unremarkable, rosé that would attract little commentary were it not for its famous backer. This dichotomy reflects the modern consumer landscape where famous figures can both elevate and undermine product perception simultaneously.

The business strategy behind American Riviera Orchard appears focused on building a lifestyle brand rather than just selling wine. The rosé serves as an entry point to what sources suggest will be a broader range of products, following a pattern established by successful celebrity ventures that begin with a signature food or drink item before expanding. This approach allows quality to improve over time as the brand establishes itself and invests more heavily in production.

For consumers deciding whether to purchase, several factors merit consideration. Those seeking an exceptional wine experience may find better values elsewhere, while fans of the Duchess or collectors of celebrity wines will likely appreciate the offering. As a gift or party conversation piece, it undoubtedly holds appeal. The more interesting question may be whether this represents the beginning of a serious wine venture or merely a celebrity endorsement – a distinction that only time and future vintages will clarify.

The “As Ever” rosé achieves precisely what it aimed for: an enjoyable, well-crafted wine with celebrity allure. It will meet the expectations of those with sensible anticipation, though it’s unlikely to change the minds of rosé doubters. In the dynamic landscape of celebrity drinks, it sits in the middle range – more credible than numerous other celebrity-linked liquors but not yet prominent as a must-experience wine beyond its well-known connection. As the brand evolves, upcoming editions may determine if this remains merely a celebrity-owned wine or the start of a truly esteemed wine label with a renowned founder.