Schlumberger Rosé Brut

Schlumberger makes its rosé Sekt from red Austrian grapes, chiefly Pinot Noir with a portion of Zweigelt, using the traditional method of second fermentation in the bottle rather than a tank. The juice is run off the skins to a pale pink before that second fermentation, then the wine rests on its lees so autolysis can add a soft, creamy weight to the naturally red fruited base. Riddling and disgorgement follow, and the wine is finished at a Brut dosage so it stays dry while keeping plenty of fruit.

The colour is a delicate salmon pink with a fine, even bead. Strawberry, raspberry and red currant lead the nose, backed by cherry and a floral edge, and the palate is dry and fresh with a creamy texture and a clean berry finish. Serve at 6 to 8 degrees in a tulip glass to hold the aromatics. It works as an aperitif and pairs happily with white meats, glazed pork and lighter fruit based desserts, and its dry finish keeps it at the table rather than only before the meal.