By Barbara Pavone
Ahh, rosé: one of the most debated cuvées in the world of wine. Although so-called purists have been known to argue otherwise, there is great merit to a finely blended rosé and there are many stellar options to choose from, if you know where to look. Searching for the perfect introduction to rosé? The recently unveiled Prestige Gran Rosé (mionettoproseccousa.com) from Italy’s Mionetto winery, founded in 1887, is a fantastic option with its welcoming notes of raspberry and strawberry and lower price point.
If you’re in the mood for something from the limited edition realm, then Nicolas Feuillatte’s Palmes d’Or Rosé Vintage 2006 (nicolas-feuillatte.com) may be the perfect rosé for you. Produced in small quantities from Pinot Noir grapes, it boasts a unique copper pink colour and has a smooth taste with refreshing of fruitiness.
On the other hand, if you’re in the market for one of the most luxurious rosés available, you need look no further than the famed Armand de Brignac Rosé Champagne. Crafted by the Cattier family and owned by Jay Z since 2014, Armand de Brignac Champagne (armanddebrignac.com) has a rich history dating all the way back to 1763. Today, the maison’s legacy is being meticulously cared for by 11th generation winemakers with an extremely knowledgable father-and-son duo at the helm.
Patriarch Jean-Jacques Cattier oversees production and has ensured that all of Armand de Brignac’s wines offer unrivalled quality. The Champagne Armand de Brignac Rosé is expertly crafted from a trio of vintages — 2009, 2010 and 2012 — and is comprised of 50% Pinot Noir, 40% Pinot Meunier and 10% Chardonnay.
The result is a champagne that’s unparalleled in flavour and is sure to solidify anyone’s appreciation for rosé, even a skeptic’s. In addition to its strawberry, currants and cherry notes, it delivers floral hints and a surprising touch of sweet almond.
What’s more, it’s worth noting that the attention to detail and craftsmanship doesn’t simply stop at the rosé itself. No, it translates to all aspects of the Armand de Brignac Rosé Champagne, including its packaging. French pewter labels are applied by hand to a pink-gold bottle, which is then polished by hand before being placed inside a gorgeous black lacquered wooden box. Spectacular!
We recently had the opportunity to speak with Emilien Boutillat, winemaker for Champagne Armand de Brignac, and discover his top tips for properly enjoying this luxurious rosé the way it was truly meant to be enjoyed. This is what he told us.
Ambiance
“The best way to drink Champagne Armand de Brignac Rosé is on a hot summer’s day, by the beach or pool, and like all things special, it should always be shared with great company.”
Glassware
“A white wine glass is preferred to serve the chilled prestige rosé. There are amazing layers of complexity to the Champagne Armand de Brignac Rosé, so it’s important that you can get your nose in the glass to enjoy them!”
Food Pairings
“My favourite pairing for this very elegant prestige champagne is grilled shrimp, steamed lobster claws with melted butter and ending with wild grown berries, like strawberries and raspberries. The rosé also pairs brilliantly with truffled veal, duck confit and wild salmon or, if you wish to simplify things, it can be enjoyed as an aperitif. Even more pairing options include charcuterie, duck-fat fries, filet mignon tips and steak.”
Cellarier Points
“Armand de Brignac Rosé Champagne drinks beautifully now, but it can also be rested under ideal cellaring conditions until 2023.”
Available from Amazon. RRP: £390.00
Main image at the top of the article: Credit Getty + Champagne Armand de Brignac
