R. H. Coutier N. V. Champagne Grand Cru Brut Rose, Ambonnay

Coutier’s entire annual production is only 2,000 cases per year and its great tasting rosé is just a fraction of that.  Aged on lees for 30 months, the blend is 60% Chardonnay, 36% Blanc de Noir-Pinot Noir and 4% red wine-Pinot Noir.  The Coutier vineyards are all located in the 100% Grand Cru village of Ambonnay on the Montagne de Reims which is known for its red wine grapes, mainly Pinot Noir.  This is a delicate salmon colored rosé with a fine but persistent mousse. The nose shows hints of fine red berries, especially gooseberries, with just a hint of toast.  The Chardonnay here provides bracing acidity to match the richness of the Pinot Noir.  Full and creamy though with great length.  Power with finesse.  Very classy stuff.

The grand cru village of Ambonnay produces some of the greatest Champagnes in the heart of the region’s prestigious Montagne de Reims. René Coutier’s family has been rooted in the village since 1619, and he is the fourth generation to work the family estate. While Ambonnay is best-known for its Pinot Noir, René’s father was the first in the village to plant Chardonnay here in 1946—a decision far ahead of its time.

The Coutiers farm nine hectares sustainably, but keep their production small and focused, selling off 80% of their fruit to the local cooperative and keeping the best fruit to bottle 2000 cases under their own label. This is real grower Champagne.

All bottles are hand-riddled. Low dosages allow the natural character of the fruit and terroir to come through. R. H. Coutier is one of the best domaines in Ambonnay and is a wonderful introduction to the magic of grand cru Champagne.