La Lutétienne Rosé, Brut Nature 2005

Wine Description for La Lutétienne Rosé Brut Nature 2005 by Tarlant

Colour & Appearance

Delicate salmon pink with copper reflexes, indicative of careful assemblage and extraordinarily lengthy maturation. The perlage presents itself remarkably fine and persistent after over 16 years on the lees – a testament to the vitality of this remarkable vintage.

Nose

A fascinating aromatic profile that impressively showcases the evolution of a mature Champagne: roasted hazelnuts, brioche and honeycomb mingle with dried rose petals, candied orange peel and a hint of oak spice. Beneath lies a mineral complexity reminiscent of flint and chalk – signatures of the Lutetian limestone soils.

Palate

Impressively structured and vibrant despite its age. The Brut Nature dosage (0 g/l) lays bare the pure essence of the wine: ripe pear, white currant and mirabelle plum meet saline minerality and a fine, creamy texture. The 75% Chardonnay imparts elegance and precision, whilst Pinot Noir contributes subtle structure. Remarkably fresh for a Champagne approaching 20 years of age.

Finish

Long, dry and characterised by vibrant minerality. Citrus peel and a subtle bitterness of almonds linger, carried by a chalky freshness that beckons the next sip.

Terroir & Origin

From five individual vineyard sites in Celles-lès-Condé and Œuilly in the Marne Valley. The Lutetian limestone soils with lignite inclusions lend this Champagne its characteristic minerality and complexity. Minimal soil disturbance and organic viticulture.

Grape Variety & Vinification

75% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir. Spontaneous fermentation in Burgundy oak barrels, six months on the lees, no malolactic fermentation. Bottled in May 2006, disgorged in January 2023 after over 16 years of lees ageing. Only 3,300 bottles produced.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Langoustines with saffron, pan-fried turbot, calf’s sweetbreads, aged Comté or Parmigiano Reggiano. The complexity harmonises beautifully with truffle dishes or smoked salmon.

Special Characteristics

An extraordinary Champagne from the innovative Tarlant estate, renowned for its terroir-focused, artisanally produced wines. The 2005 vintage is regarded as one of the finest of the decade in Champagne – this Rosé demonstrates impressively why.