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Champagne is sexy; sparkling rosés are sexier. How could they not be? They're pink. They're berry-like. They stand out in a crowd. And they're phenomenally popular this year.
Though the wines may all look alike, differences abound. Vintage bottles -- made with a single year's harvest -- can be especially expensive. But non-vintage (NV) bottles are often just as good and substantially easier on the bank account. Two NV standouts include Champagne Lanson's Noble Cuvée Rosé and Taittinger Prestige Rosé.
The distinctions between these two bubblies start with the grapes. The Lanson is made with 62 percent chardonnay and 38 percent pinot noir. The Taittinger combines 55 percent pinot meunier with 45 percent pinot noir. The Lanson is salmon pink with cherry aromas, some floral elements and a robust balance of fruit. The Taittinger has a pinker hue, with raspberry and strawberry notes and a touch of earthiness. Both are crisp and delicious. Both go well with food. And both will win you instant admirers. That's pretty sexy too.
If you want to transform the wine into a festive holiday cocktail, consider adding a splash of Chambord (to give it some black raspberry flavor and color), topping off a glass of stout (to make a "black velvet"), or mixing with gin, lemon juice and sugar (to make a "French 75" cocktail). Happy holidays!
-- James Oliver Cury
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for Champagne Lanson Noble Cuvée Rosé Non-Vintage