Pierre Paillard Rosé XVIII

In advance of that, today’s offer is a Paillard Rosé that wows us every time we taste it. 2019 may be gearing up to be a magical Champagne vintage but it is the 2018s that are the most ready to enjoy at present. In this release the Paillards vinified a third of the production in oak, with the remainder in tank, choosing, as usual, to allow the wines to undergo full malo-lactic conversion. The fullness this gives, along with the ripe Bouzy fruit, contrasts beautifully with the low dosage approach that characterises the domaine’s releases. The result is a remarkable Rosé that smells like Pinot Noir yet enlivens like only Champagne can.

With 5% of their Bouzy Rouge Coteaux Champenois in the blend this is textured and vinous yet also delicate and detailed. Lifted, intense, full of glorious fruit and chiselled structure; it’s a seriously fine bottle that has been the house pour at three Michelin Starred Guy Savoy in Paris for the past seven years.

Rosé Champagne is one of the most food friendly of all the Champagne styles. Pour this into a wine glass and try it with a blushingly pink bit of lamb or pigeon, fresh from the grill on a balmy evening. The results should speak for themselves…