Vilmart & Cie Champagne Brut Rosé 1er Cru Cuvée Rubis NV

Based in Rilly-la-Montagne, Champagne Vilmart & Cie has become one of the most respected grower-producers in Champagne, particularly admired for its distinctive use of oak and its refusal to allow malolactic fermentation. The combination creates wines with unusual texture and depth while retaining the freshness and tension essential to great Champagne. The estate's vineyards are farmed under both Viticulture Durable en Champagne and Haute Valeur Environnementale certifications.

The current Cuvée Rubis Brut Rosé Premier Cru combines 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay, with 15% still red Pinot Noir adding color, structure and red-fruited intensity. Fruit from the 2023 harvest is complemented by reserve wines from 2021 and 2022 before the wine spends ten months in large oak casks. Malolactic fermentation is blocked and dosage is held to 7 g/L, preserving freshness while allowing the wine's generous texture to emerge.

The result is a distinctly gastronomic rosé. Rose water, pomegranate and fresh red fruit lead into blood orange and subtle nutmeg, with fine bubbles, lively acidity and a persistent, mouthwatering finish. It has the pleasure expected from rosé Champagne but also the structure and complexity to move effortlessly from the first glass through dinner.