NV Krug Rose Edition 18

The NV Champagne 29th Edition Rose is a bright salmon orange color. It is expressive and offers a decadent and opulent nose, with notes of toasted brioche, fresh nectarine, white strawberries, cardamom, and saline. The previous three editions of the Rose had a darker red pigment, but this returns to the paler style that preceded them. In 2017, they used two years of reserve, as the year was particularly challenging for red wine. It fills the palate with a rounded feel, refreshing acidity, a pillowing mousse, and a clean, chalky texture. It will be released this fall. Drink 2025-2050.

Based on 2017 vintage. 29 wines from five vintages back to 2010. 33% reserve wine. 53% Pinot Noir (11% blended in as red), 28% Chardonnay, 19% Pinot Meunier. Six years on lees. Dosage 4.5 g/l. Bright orange-pink. Not exactly red-fruited on the nose, but more savoury than the 173ème Édition Brut. Rich yet savoury on the palate. Lean, tangy structure. The autolytic character takes some coaxing, but it's there on the finish, leaving a waft of bakery aroma. Light cherry scent starts to emerge as it opens in the glass. (RH)

Lovely pink color. This is really classy and refined. Quite subtle aromas of peaches, pears and cantaloupe with lavender and heather follow through to a medium body. The tight, focused palate has ultrafine texture and a very long finish. Almost never-ending. Fine bubbles integrate beautifully. Drink or hold.