Ruinart Brut Rosé

Well-cut acidity is a refreshing sweep in this refined, sculpted rose Champagne. Frames flavors of white peach, dried white cherry, raspberry coulis and salted Marcona almond as they ride the satiny mousse alongside accents of oyster shell, pickled ginger and lemon thyme. A streak of chalky minerality emerges to drive the finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drink now through 2030.

(55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay; 9 g/l dosage; LAH9V): Light orange. Sharply focused red berry and tangerine scents are complicated by suggestions of allspice and cinnamon, with a hint of smokiness in the background. Sappy and minerally on the palate, offering fresh strawberry and blood orange flavors lifted by juicy acidity. Packs a serious punch but carries no excess weight and finishes stony and very long, with echoing red berry character.

Bright orange-pink. Spice-accented aromas and flavors of red berries, cherry and candied rose, with a smoky nuance building with air. Juicy and precise, with more energy and cut than last year's release. Finishes long, with very good energy, leaving spice and floral notes behind.

In the generous style that is Ruinart, the wine is full with red fruits that are mouthfilling and rich. At the same time, there is a crisp streak of mineral texture that cuts through the wine to give a bright aftertaste. Drink this beautifully balanced Champagne now.

The NV Brut Rose is a pretty, understated wine graced with notable class and finesse. This is a decidedly feminine, delicate style best suited to drinking as an aperitif. Sweet berries, flowers and spices are layered into the refined, well-articulated finish. This is Lot LAGJUA4. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014.