Champagne Autreau Premier Cru Rosé - 75cl

Autréau is a grower house in Champillon, family-run since 1670 and farming 33.5 hectares across the Premier and Grand Cru villages of Champagne. As a propriétaire-récoltant they grow and make their own wine, and this rosé comes entirely from their Premier Cru vineyards at Champillon, Dizy and Hautvillers.

What sets it apart is the make-up: 85% Chardonnay, with 15% Pinot Noir vinified as red wine and blended in - a rosé d'assemblage that leans on Chardonnay where most lead on Pinot. The Chardonnay brings florals, citrus and lift; the red-wine Pinot Noir gives the deep pink colour, red-berry fruit and a savoury edge. Hand-picked, made in stainless steel, aged three years on its lees.

The result is a rosé with real freshness rather than weight - blackcurrant and red berries over a crisp, mineral core, with the depth that long lees ageing brings. Serve well chilled, around 8°C.