NV Delamotte Rose Brut Champagne

(92 points) Outer quote mark The Delamotte NV Brut Rosé is a blend of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay that receives its beautiful pink-salmon color from the saignée method. The grapes are sourced exclusively in grand cru villages such as Bouzy, Ambonnay and Tours-sur-Marne for the Pinot and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger for the Chardonnay and are fermented together. The wine tasted here is based on 2012 (disgorged in June 2016 with a dosage of seven grams per liter) and opens with a highly delicate and subtle bouquet of red fruits intermixed with very fine chalky flavors. On the palate, this is an intense yet fine, very elegant, well-structured and persistent Rosé with a lovely vinous character and charming fruit reminiscent of raspberries and cherries. The finish is pure, fresh and even salty, revealing a delicate grip and a lush, highly delicate texture. This is a picture book Rosé that doesn't need any occasion but itself. (SR) Inner quote mark (11/2017)  Robert Parker's Wine Advocate