Dom Pérignon, Rosé, 2004

The story of the vintage is well documented by previous releases – suffice to say it was a season that threw up few hazards for vignerons, with harvest carried out at a leisurely pace after a steady period of ripening. The wine itself is very fine, with a strong floral character preceding notes of steely minerality and stony, very pure Pinot Noir flavours. Demure at first, it takes a little time to unfurl, becoming prettier and more tempting with each passing minute in the glass. The bead is exceptionally refined, and the finish, while delicate, has a fine symmetry and impressive persistence, suggesting charms yet to be revealed. It is in fact, a quintessential Dom Pérignon Rosé – fans of the cuvée will not be disappointed. Dosage is 6 grams. The blend for production is approximately 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay with the assemblage including 15-20% of still wine from some of their best exposed Pinot Noir sites. Disgorgement was in 2013, after 9 years on its lees.