Louis Roederer Brut Nature Rose 2012 by Philippe Starck (1x75cl)

Two things on this label are worth explaining. Brut Nature means zero dosage: no sugar is added after disgorgement, which makes it the driest style of champagne there is. And it was made in collaboration with the designer Philippe Starck, whose name appears on the bottle.

It is also a vintage champagne, all from 2012, so it is not blended across years the way non-vintage champagne is. A clear pick as a gift or a dinner opener for someone who drinks dry and already has plenty of the usual labels at home.

Tasting notes

Zero-dosage rose champagne usually reads taut and savoury rather than fruity-sweet, with red-fruit hints and a dry, chalky finish. Typically good as an aperitif or with seafood and cured meats.