Taittinger : Nocturne Rosé

The intensely salmon-colored NV Nocturne Rosé Sec (City Lights) blends 30% Chardonnay with 70% Pinot Noir, sourced from 30 crus. The pink Nocturne comes across as a medium-bodied and medium-dry Champagne that opens with clear and aromatic cherry fruit and some floral aromas on the nose. Very elegant and round on the palate, this sparkling wine has a nice structure and a fresh finish. It drinks very well as an aperitif and certainly as a late-night wine, which is its main focus, obviously. (Tasted in November 2017 from L6380OT00500.)

Strawberry purée and orange sorbet flavors are laced with accents of pickled ginger, smoke and pineapple pâte de fruit in this creamy version. Bright and balanced, with a lip-smacking finish. Drink now. 400 cases imported.

Dried fruits, sweet strawberry, rustic. Pink apple skin, blood orange, sourdough, balanced sweetness and acidity, rich, concentrated.

Lots of candied cherries and berries. Full-bodied and easy. Fine bubbles and a fruity finish. More of a sec with an off-dry finish. Fun. Drink now.

A blend dominated by Pinot Noir gives this ripe, pink rosé its rich character. It is soft with some sweetness from the high dosage that makes it immediately accessible and easy to drink. In its cheerful bottle, it is definitely a party wine.