Veuve Fourny & Fils Rosé Brut Premier Cru Subtlety

Tatler Champagne Guide 2024-2025

Grape Makeup:

Chardonnay; Pinot Noir

Sweetness Level:

Brut

Ageing on Lees:

24 months

Price:

$$

Cellar:

Up to five years

Category:

Celebration

What

A fifth-generation grower-producer that specialises in Chardonnay-dominant cuvées that show off the character of Vertus Premier Cru.

Where

Vertus, Côte des Blancs; 8.7ha, predominantly in the chalky soils of Vertus, with a mix of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Why

Continuing the run of rosés from Côte des Blancs Chardonnay specialists in this year’s selection, this cuvée Subtlety is a rarity made with foot-stomped Pinot Noir grapes that are extensively macerated. This represents blended with Vertus Chardonnay, for an assemblage that is quite characterful (contrary to its name), with a beautiful fougère nose and rich drag on the palate from the lees ageing in casks before the second fermentation.

What Else

The classic Blanc de Blancs NV shows off ripe, radiant Chardonnay fruit that is almost tropical but with a bracing oceanic edge and punchy dryness.

Tasting Notes

This opens with pink peppercorn, rhubarb and gentian. Quite medicinal and herbal but with a decidedly tart edge, soon adding bright pink currant and ruby grapefruit tones. There is pleasing mid-weight and noticeable drag, but the same rhubarb stemmy vegetal character as the nose gives it edge. Acidity forms a fine mesh around the edge. Yeastiness is not very overt, but the aromatics are sufficiently interesting without it.

Try It With

Flavourful tapas like gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns)

When To Drink

Hot entrées

Perfect For

Your friend who hoards Eau De Rhubarbe Écarlate

TL/DR

Medicinal, herbal and pleasantly tart

Supplier

Vero Concept