Jacquart Mosaïque Rosé Brut NV Champagne, France 75cl

Champagne Jacquart, based in Reims at the heart of the region, draws its wines from a broad mosaic of vineyards across Champagne, the idea that gives its Mosaique range its name. The house aims for a fresh, approachable and elegant style, and its rose follows the same thinking, offering the real character of Champagne in an easy-going form.

This rose is built from Champagne’s classic grapes, with a measure of red wine blended in to give its delicate pink colour and gentle berry fruit. Chardonnay lends freshness and finesse, while the Pinots bring body and the red-fruit character that defines a good rose Champagne. This assemblage method is the most common way rose Champagne is made.

As a non-vintage blend, it is assembled for consistency rather than to mark a single harvest, with reserve wines from earlier years adding depth. Time maturing on the lees before release gives it a subtle, bready complexity beneath the fruit, though it stays fresh and lively.

Expect a delicate salmon-pink colour, a fine and steady mousse, and aromas of strawberry, raspberry and redcurrant. The palate is fresh and dry, with soft red-berry fruit and a clean, crisp finish. Serve well chilled, in a tulip glass to hold the aromatics and the bubbles.

Rose Champagne is as good at the table as it is before a meal. Pour this as a celebratory aperitif, or with charcuterie, salmon, summer berries and light puddings. It is a pretty, food-friendly way to add a sense of occasion to a gathering.