Alexandra Rosé 2004

The Alexandra Rosé is one of Laurent-Perrier's rarest cuvées: since its introduction in 1987 only seven vintages have been released, because the house bottles it only in exceptional years. The 2004 is made up of 80 per cent Pinot Noir and 20 per cent Chardonnay from selected grand cru plots. After more than ten years in the cellar it comes across as fine and elegant, with great minerality and a delicate perlage. The nose is complex: wild strawberries and redcurrant jam develop into candied citrus. The texture is delicate and dry, the finish long, with red fruit.

At table it calls for refined dishes, such as roasted lobster or scallops with black truffles. Serve it at 9 to 11 °C in a large white wine glass, which gives its complexity room to unfold. The bottle comes in a new wooden presentation box, which makes a lovely gift.