Drappier : Brut Nature Rosé "Les Riceys"

Drappier's rosé from this Pinot Noir village pays homage to the typically juicy, dark style of Riceys tradition without going in too deep – there's joyous red apple juice, crunchy red plum and rose aromas, all perfume and sweet-scented appeal, with a palate that is surprisingly nimble and a cushioned, gentle mousse. It's dry, but not at all hard work – accessible, but fine.

A pure Pinot Noir rosé, of which about 15% is from a solera reserve. Fragrant and intense nose of red berry fruit, blood oranges and cloves, followed by caramel, vanilla and brioche. Vinous and flavorful on the palate, with creamy bubbles. From organically grown grapes. Unfiltered. Drink now.

The NV Champagne Les Riceys Brut Nature Rosé pours a touch deeper shade of pink/orange and offers notes of cherries. It's a highly attractive wine offering more depth and structure on the palate, as well as compact definition. The mousse is refined and peppery, with a Burgundian aesthetic. Made as a rosé de saignée with 100% Pinot Noir from Jurassic Kimmeridgian soil, the wine includes 10-20% reserve perpétuelle with wines going back to 2012 in the blend. No oak was used. Disgorged in September 2023.

Lovely bright garnet colour. Pleasant, even if the aromas are a little discreet; it wins you over more with its palate and momentum.

First a hint of strawberry-lemon sorbet, then wild strawberry, then iron oxide, then white truffle and undergrowth: yes, that can only be Pinot Noir. Air and temperature then clothe the iron oxide in creamy, floral charm. The body is round and textured and resonates with the same haunting truffle depth. This wine is profound, authentic and above all, pure. A marriage of Burgundy and Champagne, passionate, original and therefore absolutely convincing.