R.H. Coutier Champagne Grand Cru Extra Brut Rose NV
(Champagne, France) - [VM 90]

About the Domaine:
Champagne R. H. Coutier is located in the grand cru village of Ambonnay, one of the top wine-producing sectors of the Montagne de Reims. The Coutier family has been in the village of Ambonnay since 1619, with fifth generation vigneron Antoine Coutier currently at the helm. 

The Coutier house style is accentuated by vinification and cellar techniques that seek to marry the traditional richness of Ambonnay fruit with the racy and pure style that the family cherishes. To that end, two-thirds of the Coutier wines go through malolactic fermentation, as Antoine feels this balances opulence with tension in the finished wines. Barrel fermentation and/or aging is only used for the Cuvée Henri III and the single vineyard cuvée "La Pierre Aux Larrons". A second single vineyard wine, "Le Bout Du Clos," sees ageing in ceramic vessels.

About this Champagne:

2021 Harvest Base
4g/L Dosage
30% aged in neutral French oak.
Aged on lees for 30 months.
60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir
The Coutier vineyards are all located in the 100% Grand Cru village of Ambonnay on the Montagne de Reims which is known for its red wine grapes, mainly Pinot Noir.
Delicate salmon colored rosé with a fine but persistent mousse. The nose shows hints of fine red berries, especially gooseberries, with just a hint of toast. The Chardonnay here provides bracing acidity to match the richness of the Pinot Noir. Full and creamy though with great length. Power with finesse. Very classy stuff.

Ratings & Reviews

90 Points - Vinous Media:
"The NV Brut Rosé Grand Cru is a soft, caressing Champagne ideal for drinking as an aperitif or with lighter dishes. Cranberry, white pepper, mint and grapefruit all grace this airy, understated Rosé. This release is 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir (including some still red wine), based on 2021 with 40% reserve wines. Dosage is 4.5 grams per liter. Disgorged: June 2024." - Antonio Galloni (Mar 2024)