R.H. Coutier Rose Grand Cru NV

Description

Champagne R. H. Coutier is located in the grand cru village of Ambonnay, one of the top wine-producing towns on the Montagne de Reims. The Coutier family has been in the village of Ambonnay since 1619, with the current head of the family estate René Coutier. The Coutiers own nine hectares of vineyards in Ambonnay, and interestingly, although Ambonnay is generally regarded as pinot noir country, the Coutiers’ vineyards are planted with one-third chardonnay and two-thirds pinot noir. In fact, in 1946 René Coutier’s father was the first vigneron in Ambonnay to plant chardonnay in the village, which has done well since then and is now as highly regarded as the pinot noir from this grand cru village. The vineyards on the Montagne de Reims shift exposure as one arrives in the village of Ambonnay, facing due south and producing a rather warmer microclimate for the grapes.

The NV Brut Rose Grand Cru would be a highlight in virtually every other cellar, but here the competition is quite stiff. This release is built on the 2008 vintage, and it is the personality of the year that comes through most. Expressive red berries, flowers, mint and crushed rocks burst from the glass as this energetic wine shows off its pure vibrancy and class. Coutier’s NV Brut Rose is another clear winner. Wine Advocate 92