Taittinger Champagne Nocturne Rosé Sec

Taittinger blend the Nocturne Rosé from around 30 per cent Chardonnay with Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, plus a measure of still red wine from the Montagne de Reims and Les Riceys for colour and fruit depth. The wine is made by the traditional method, with a second fermentation in bottle and slow maturation in the house cellars, which integrates the dosage and keeps the texture smooth. At around 17 grams of residual sugar it falls in the Sec band, a touch sweeter than a Brut, though the Chardonnay freshness keeps it in balance.

The wine is a bright, intense rosé with a lively, fine bead. Ripe raspberry, cherry and strawberry fill the nose, with fine floral notes and a light toasty tone. The palate is soft and velvety, with a fruity sweetness, gentle structure and fresh acidity, closing round and long. Serve at 8 to 10 degrees in a white wine glass. An evening style that suits berry desserts, fine pastries and mild cheeses.