Real Detroit Article
April 26, 1999

*This is the second part of a series on rose wines

Rose Champagne

Last week we spoke of rose wines throughout California, Italy, and Spain that are great summer quenchers because of their semi-sweet to dry styles. However, rose wines reach their apex in Champagne. Made solely from the Pinot Noir grape, rose champagne is often considered as the ultimate beverage in sensual luxury.

These special wines are difficult to make, costly, rare, but at their best they are quietly magnificent. The best producers remain Dom Perignon, Roederer Cristal, and Perrier Jouet as they continue to produce top-flight champagnes of elegance and finesse. With a good friend, a great view, luxurious food, and the right moment a great rose champagne will take your breath away and open your mind's eye to the mystery of wine.

You may find that some rose wines are labeled "Blanc de Noir." This French phrase literally means, "white from black." It connotes that the wine was made from only Pinot Noir. The inside of every grape is white pulp and juice. It is the amount of contact with the skin that colors the wine from pinkish hues to ruby red. A Blanc de Noir method is designed to allow the skins to impart soft complex layers of fruit in a light and drinkable style. The method reminds us of a lady in simple, but stunning evening gown that caresses your eyes with elegance, softness, and coy beauty.

Although rose is expensive to make, there are many options at several different price ranges. We love the Rotari Brut Rose from Italy, Mumm Blanc de Noir from California, Pacific Echo Brut Rose, and Pommery Brut Rose from France. Rose wines pair most excellently with mild cheeses, caviar, honeyed ham, and lightly spiced dishes. Romance yourself (or someone else) with rose this summer. It will tickle you pink.