Paul Bara, Brut, Grand Rosé, $83

This Rosé Champagne remains one of our all-time favorites, ever since we first began working with grower Champagne.

It is made by Paul Bara, a small, 27-acre estate established in 1833 in the Grand Cru village of Bouzy. Bara is considered one of the most renowned producers in the Montagne de Reims. Andrew Jefford, author of The New France, writes that Bara’s Champagnes are “essential references for anyone who wants to enjoy and understand the ripe, dry richness of Bouzy.” Today the estate is run by Paul’s eldest daughter, Chantale, who continues to keep the family tradition and the house style alive. Their 100% Grand Cru wines are produced from fruit grown on vines averaging 35 years in age, planted in the deep, chalky clay and limestone soil that imparts intense fruit flavor and amazing minerality. They age even their non-vintage wines a minimum of two to three years in their cellar, carved out of the chalk soil to a depth of over 30 feet. The Grand Rosé is typically about 80% Pinot Noir (12% still red wine from Bouzy) and 20% Chardonnay, with about eight grams dosage and aged four years on the lees. A lovely pale pink color, it is elegant and nuanced, with flavors of both red and orchard fruit, hints of freshly baked brioche, and fine bubbles.

Noted Champagne expert and author Peter Liem writes, “Bara’s Champagnes are classic examples of Bouzy … they demonstrate an unusual refinement and finesse — they tend to feel velvety in their depth of fruit and seamless in their integration of components.” This one is a perfect celebratory Champagne for the holidays, with or without food.