Rosé des Riceys en Barmont

Hard not to think it's red at first because of the colour. The nose throws out raspberry, wild strawberry, barberry, rose petal, a brush of herbs, black pepper, smoke, and a touch of forest floor. On the palate, it's medium-bodied with a smooth, almost velvety texture. There's a lovely surge of acidity that keeps it fresh, and the tannins are light but present - like velvet brushed in reverse. The finish lingers with a gentle grapefruit bitterness and that slightly chewy red apple skin thing. Balanced, vivid, and quietly compelling.