Pink fizz with a difference

Rosé Velours is produced using the traditional saignée method, rather than blending white and red wines as is the norm for most pink Champagnes.

It also has a higher sugar dosage than is usual for most modern Champagnes, although the end style is still dry but with plenty of ripe, upfront fruit character.

Produced by macerating 25% Chardonnay and 75% Pinot Noir and Meunier, the wine is made exclusively from the hot 2003 vintage, although this is not written on the label.

Rosé Velours comes in an 18th-century-style dark bottle with an accompanying pink handbag.

The basics: £79, www.champagnepannier.com

• wine