Tasting Prestige Cuvée Rosé with Marina Olsson
Rosé Champagne has historically contended with a perception of frivolity, but recent years have revealed a profound transformation in its esteem. Notably, renowned house Bollinger only offered a Non-Vintage Cuvée starting in 2008, long after the dismissal of its matriarch’s fondness for the style. Today, however, the delicate hue of rosé has become a captivating and increasingly celebrated choice in the world of fine wines.
Marina Olsson, a prominent Swedish collector and member of the Gomseglet Wine and Champagne Connoisseurs Club, has embraced this shift with enthusiasm. Hosting a dedicated tasting event for prestigious rosés, she took eager collectors to Malmo for a sampling of exceptional selections from eight prestigious houses on October 19, 2024. These included Billecart-Salmon, Boizel, Deutz, Laurent-Perrier, Moët et Chandon, Rare, Taittinger, and De Venoge, showcasing four variations from each house, complemented by a special flight named "Red Carpet."
The quality of rosé Champagne has significantly improved over the years, now comprising about 10-11% of production. Modern winemaking practices emphasize the importance of grape provenance and vinification methods for the red component, critical for the overall style. Experts agree that managing tannins is essential, as “bubbles do not like tannins,” according to Benoît Gouez, the chef de caves at Moët et Chandon. Innovations in yeast strains, extraction techniques, and fermentation temperature control have played pivotal roles in enhancing the quality of these wines.
The aging characteristics of rosé Champagne now command respect, with dedicated attention to style consistency across different vintages. During the event, each house offered a signature style, and participants enjoyed the exploration of how color and craftsmanship have evolved. Notable wines from the tasting included exquisite selections from Moët and Taittinger, renowned for their depth and character, alongside the elegant Billecart-Salmon.
With the consistent rave scores across various vintages, it is clear that rosé Champagne has matured into a wine for all occasions. The meticulous methods employed by the houses echo the race for excellence, establishing prestige and sophistication in what was once seen as a lighter fare.
The tasting, replete with critical assessments and enjoyment, illustrated that rosé Champagne now offers an array of complex flavors and structural integrity, thus shifting its long-held image. As Marina Olsson aptly puts it, these wines invite a unique experience, one that goes well beyond mere celebration—a true testament to the art of Champagne.
For further exploration of the remarkable offerings of these prestigious brands, more information can be found on their respective pages: