Rosé wine | Champagne, France
The Billecart-Salmon Le Rosé is a non-vintage rosé Champagne produced by the esteemed Billecart-Salmon winery, located in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, in the heart of the Champagne region of France. This iconic cuvée is celebrated worldwide for its delicate flavors, elegant structure, and beautiful pale pink hue. The Billecart-Salmon family has been crafting exceptional Champagnes since 1818, upholding traditions and dedication to quality. This Rosé is a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes, sourced from some of the finest vineyards in the region. A portion of the Pinot Noir is vinified as red wine, which gives the rosé its color and added complexity. The wine undergoes a slow, cool fermentation in stainless steel tanks, preserving the delicate aromas and flavors of the grapes. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, according to the traditional Champagne method ('méthode champenoise'). It is then aged on its lees (spent yeast cells) for an extended period, typically three years, before being disgorged and finished. The result is a dry style of Rosé that boasts a complex array of flavors and aromas. Expect to find notes of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and citrus fruit, complemented by hints of floral blossoms and a subtle touch of brioche from the extended lees aging. On the palate, the wine is creamy and refined with a delicate mousse (bubbles) and a long, refreshing finish. The Billecart-Salmon Le Rosé is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. It’s a sublime aperitif, perfect for toasting special occasions, and it also pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Consider serving it with seafood, such as grilled salmon or prawns, or with light salads, charcuterie, or creamy cheeses. For a truly decadent pairing, try it with a strawberry tart or a raspberry soufflé.
Billecart-Salmon distinguishes itself through its commitment to sustainable viticulture, minimizing the use of chemicals in the vineyards. Their unique winemaking techniques, which include cold fermentation and extended aging on lees, results in wines with exceptional finesse and longevity. The Champagne region itself is unique, owing its sparkling wines to a confluence of factors: a cool climate that produces grapes with high acidity, chalky soils that impart minerality, and centuries of winemaking tradition. The Billecart-Salmon Le Rosé is a testament to the family’s dedication to quality and a perfect expression of the terroir of Champagne. This wine will elevate any occasion, from intimate dinners to grand celebrations.