Wine Advisor
Taittinger, Comtes de Champagne Brut Rose 2005
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Description
Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Brut Rose cuvée, which is always a vintage, is only made when the year has been exceptional and all the demanding quality criteria have been met. It is made from 30% Chardonnay Grands Crus from the prestigious Côte des Blancs region and 70% Pinot Noir from the Grands Crus from the Montagne de Reims region. The Comtes de Champagne Rosé owes the secret of its uniqueness to the 15% of still red wine which is added to the blend. It is the Champagne House’s most rare cuvée. Its fruity character and smooth, caressing taste make it a delicious luxury to only be enjoyed in small sips. Another legend, Rudolph Noureev, said, “When I drink Comtes de Champagne rosé, I no longer dance, I fly...”
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: David Schildknecht
The Taittinger 2005 Brut Rose Comtes de Champagne exhibits a delectable nose of fraise du bois, red raspberry and maraschino discreetly complemented by anise, vanilla, and Ceylon tea. Silken in feel and with exceptionally fine and at once stimulating and caressing mousse, this finishes with luscious abundance of juicy fresh red berries supported by appropriate sweetness, hints of fine, tea-like tannins, crunchy berry seeds, chalk and toasted almond serving for satisfying counterpoint. It should prove rewarding to follow for several years, but don’t miss out on its youthful pleasures! Imported by Kobrand, Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7700
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
The 2005 Brut Rose Comtes de Champagne is rich, round and seductive in this vintage. Warm and resonant, the 2005 blossoms in all directions with gorgeous aromatics and expressive, generous fruit. I generally prefer more vibrant vintages for the estate’s Rose, especially for aging, but immediate accessibility is one of the undisputed attributes of the 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. This is a fabulous set of new releases from Taittinger. The 2002 Comtes de Champagne is easily one of the very best young Champagnes I have ever tasted. Over the next year or so, Taittinger plans to list more information about their NV wines on the back labels, something that is a huge positive for the consumer. Importer: Kobrand Corp., Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7756
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
The 2005 Comtes de Champagne Rosé is a wine of contrasts. At first rich and vinous on the palate, the 2005 turns more delicate with time in the glass as its silkier and floral qualities become more evident. Sweet red berry and spice notes linger on the delicate finish.
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
The 2005 Comtes de Champagne Rosè has gained quite a bit of depth and richness since I last tasted it about six months ago. Initially a bit restrained, and times even ethereal, the 2005 seems to be coming out of its shell. Today the flavors are expressive, while the wine's structure is much more evident than it has been in the past. Dark berries, rose petals and a hint of chocolate all leave a lasting impression.
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
The 2005 Brut Rose Comtes de Champagne is rich, round and seductive in this vintage. Warm and resonant, the 2005 blossoms in all directions with gorgeous aromatics and fruit. I generally prefer more vibrant vintages for the estate's Rose, especially for aging, but immediate accessibility is one of the undisputed attributes of the 2005.
Reviewed by: Neal Martin
We started with a pre-prandial 2005 Rosé Comtes de Champagne from Taittinger. This was ridiculously fine. Quite deep and almost Burgundian on the nose, it is vibrant and beautifully defined, with red cherries, bergamot and crushed stones in the background. Likewise, the palate has more weight and depth than other Rosés, with dark cherries and hints of white chocolate and nutmeg, lovely tension and grip on the finish. It represents everything I adore about Rosé Champagne, and it is drinking perfectly at present.
About the Producer
A Great Champagne House, which has quickly established itself as one of the most prestigious in the region, Taittinger is founded upon exceptional cuvees from the greatest terroirs of Champagne. The history of the Taittinger Champagne House begins at the beginning of the 20th century. Taittinger developed his brand’s identity gradually, building its identity upon a daring and innovative style. In 1932, Taittinger became one of the most important references among the great Champagne Houses. The noble Chardonnay became the emblematic grape variety of the House, producing brilliant wines full of finesse, elegance and an ethereal lightness. Since 2006, Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger, along with his daughter Vitalie and his son Clovis, has been at the helm of the business started by his ancestors. Thanks to the great commitment of a united and dedicated family, Taittinger has maintained a winning spirit and a certain consistency of style, marking this beautiful Champagne House. The Taittinger Champagne House boasts a wealth of very precious and rare vineyards. In order to preserve the invaluable genetic heritage that is the signature of the Taittinger brand, the estate has chosen mass selection for more than 90% of its vines. In addition to Pinot Noir (48%) and Pinot Meunier (15%), a pride of place is given to Chardonnay (37%), the variety that leaves its print most significantly on the cuvées of the House.
