Drappier Champagne Rosé de Saignée Brut

Drappier are based at Urville in the Aube, in the southern Champagne region where Pinot Noir dominates the vineyards. This rosé is made by saignée, meaning the colour and flavour are drawn from short contact with Pinot Noir skins during fermentation rather than by blending in red wine. The result is a deeper pink and a more vinous red-fruit character than most Champagne rosé. It follows the traditional method, with a second fermentation in bottle and ageing on the lees before disgorgement, and is finished at brut dosage.

The colour is a bright salmon to redcurrant pink with a fine, persistent bead. The nose leads with strawberry, raspberry and red currant, backed by a light toasted-bread note from time on the lees. The palate is dry and structured, the red fruit joined by a hint of pomegranate and a savoury, chalky finish. Serve at around eight to ten degrees in a tulip glass. It pairs with charcuterie, roast poultry and red-fruit desserts.