Gosset Grand Brut Rose (750Ml)

Champagne Gosset was founded in Aÿ in 1584, and it calls itself the oldest wine house in the region. Its Grand Rosé Brut is a non-vintage blend led by Chardonnay. One retailer gives the mix as 56% Chardonnay and 35% white Pinot Noir. The last 9% is still red Pinot Noir from Ambonnay and Bouzy, which gives the wine its color.

Most of the Chardonnay comes from the Côte des Blancs. Other fruit is drawn from villages such as Aÿ, Chouilly, Verzenay and Villers-Marmery, mostly Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites. Gosset skips malolactic fermentation. That keeps the natural acidity bright and helps the wine age. The rosé rests at least three years in the cellar before release. It is a Brut, with a dosage of 8 grams per liter.

In the glass it is pale salmon pink with ruby glints. The nose opens with strawberry and a twist of citrus. As it warms, raspberry and other red berries come forward. The palate is fresh and balanced. Round, pulpy red fruit meets crisp acidity and a chalky, mineral line. It finishes fresh, with strawberry and raspberry hanging on.

Critics rate it well. James Suckling and Wine Spectator each gave it 93 points. Jeb Dunnuck and Wine Enthusiast both scored it 91.

Serve it well chilled in a tulip-shaped glass. It is lovely as an aperitif with shellfish or smoked salmon. It also handles roast poultry, grilled veal and even foie gras. For dessert, a strawberry tart or a bowl of raspberries is a natural match. Pick this bottle when you want a rosé champagne with real history and a crisp, food-friendly style.