Champagne Michel Gonet Rose

Drink it now. No need to decant it. In 1802, Charles Gonet created the Gonet Champagne house, a company that can now count seven generations of winemakers. In 1973, Michel Gonet modernized and expanded the cellars with the aim of further improving the quality and making wines that were able to be a reference in the region. The vineyard extends for 40 hectares around Avize (15 km south of Epernay) in the Côte des Blancs, the stronghold of the Grands Crus. The vines (80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir) favor the finesse and elegance of the wine over a terroir composed exclusively of chalk. The Côte des Blancs enjoys a quite exceptional climate: protected from the cold north winds by a providential hill, the south-facing slopes are spared from the rains that fall into the valley. These ideal climatic conditions associated with this exceptional terroir allow the Gonet vineyard to be classified as Grand Cru, the highest recognition of Champagne. This 100% Pinot Noir has a coppery color and a lively and powerful nose. On the palate, the fruity flavors are characterized by a juicy intensity, with notes of wild strawberries and raspberries. The flavors are long and persistent with final notes of butter and brioche deriving from the long aging in the bottle. The bubbles are fine and persistent. Try it with salmon, tuna, or even grilled pork.

Price: £33.10 from 8wines UK