Ruinart Rosé NV (75cl, 12.5%)

Ruinart Rosé is a non-vintage rosé Champagne made as an assemblage rosé. It blends 45% Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims with 55% Pinot Noir, of which about 43% is white-pressed and 12% red-pressed, from Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne. Around 40 to 50 crus are used, with reserve wines at about 20 to 30%. The grapes are hand-harvested, fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel with malolactic fermentation, then aged in cellar for two to three years. Dosage is 8 g/L and alcohol is 12.5%. The house describes a coral and mahogany colour, with pomegranate, lychee, guava, rose and fresh red fruit on the nose, plus a touch of tonka and nutmeg warmth. The palate is fresh, finely structured and rounded, with a finish of mint and pink grapefruit. Serve at about 8°C; it suits oily fish, shellfish or duck.