Brut Rosé 2008

The Rosé 2008 from Charles Heidsieck comes from eleven grands and premiers crus and is 63 per cent Pinot Noir, of which 9 per cent is red wine, and 37 per cent Chardonnay. It spent more than ten years on the lees. The dosage is lower than in earlier vintages, which suits its lively character. The house expects it to keep for at least 20 years.

The nose is mineral and salty, with smoke, citrus and redcurrant, and later sour cherry and liquorice. On the palate it is lively, fresh and powerful at once, and the finish is long and creamy. Try it with salmon tartare or red mullet, at 10 to 12 °C and in a wide white wine glass. It comes in a gift box.