Balathier Champagne Brut Rosé, 75cl

Product Information

Made by one of the region’s smaller cooperatives, this champers is so fresh and chalky yet slightly lemony that it’ll feel like you're drinking sparkling chablis.

As to pouring champagne, if everything went smoothly, you have a bottle at 45 degrees, with a touch of vapour wafting out. Don't over-fill the glass, as it will warm up far faster there than in the bottle, and warm champagne is a shame.

High-quality glasses in an elegant shape, these champagne flutes are machine-made but excellent value for money. The process where base metals are turned into sparkling gold involves blending the still wines, usually from different vintages and vineyards all over the region, into a house style. Initially it’s very fresh, but give it time and you’ll discover a yeasty richness underneath with some red cherry notes. We sampled from supermarket own-labels made by giant cooperatives to hand-crafted champagnes made by small growers who use only their own grapes, unusual in Champagne. While working in manufacturing he specialised in bespoke product and menu development for several start-ups and well-known brands such as Wrap It Up!

Once the cork is out, it will be followed by froth, which should go straight into that readied glass. You get unripe apricots and tart green grapes mingling with sweet brioche and vanilla on the palate, with ripe red berries on the nose. There’s plenty of choice when it comes to fizz these days: from affordable prosecco and cava to unique English sparkling wines and even non-alcoholic sparkling options, but champagne remains the most decadent option.

That mousse is the fizz escaping, and in excess, leaves you with a flat drink, and nobody wants that.