Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
75cl * Sustainable * 12.5% ABV * Champagne, France
The company we now know as Louis Roederer was founded in 1776 as Dubois Pere & Fils, changing its name in 1833 when the young Louis inherited the estate from his uncle. The house is perhaps best-known for Cristal (bottled in clear crystal and a flat punt), their prestige cuvee that became famous due to its associations with the Russian Imperial Court.
The grapes for the vintage range of Roederer Champagnes are sourced from their own vineyards, which guarantees that only the highest quality fruit ends up in the final blend. Louis Roederer Rosé 2016 is a blend of Premier Cru and Grand Cru for 62% Pinot Noir and 38% Charonnay among, about 15% of which is wine matured in oak barrels. Salmon pink hue with bright red tints. Deep, intense colour. The bubbles are fine yet vibrant and energetic.
The summery bouquet shows exceptional intensity and freshness with its aromas of ripe, juicy stone fruit (wild peach) complemented by zesty red fruit (redcurrant) and citrus notes (blood orange). The nose develops into more jammy notes of Roussillon red apricot. The palate is soft, juicy and concentrated on entry and then quickly shows a chalky, saline freshness that structures the wine and lends it a voluptuous yet delicate mouthfeel. The end palate is mouth-watering and ever so slightly salty with discreet tannins and a lovely subtle bitterness that complements the incredible dry chalkiness of the wine and lingers on the seemingly never-ending finish.
“The 2016 Brut Rosé is charming. Soft and inviting, the 2016 will drink beautifully right out of the gate. Readers will find a beautifully perfumed, gracious Rosé. The 2016 is not the richest or most complex vintage Rosé Roederer has released lately, but it is impeccably balanced and very easy to enjoy for its sensual personality.” 90 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous