Harmony in Rosé

Some might say it's a bit late - past Valentines Day and way after end-of-year festivities - but we are always looking for a delicious pink bubbly that does not break the bank. Spending a soupçon of time in Paris as we do, we find it easier to achieve the latter there than in our beloved NYC, but finding a rosé bubbly that qualifies as "delicious" is never easy.

That is why we were pleased to open a bottle the other day of a Cremant d'Alsace, Harmonie de Rose Brut from Ruhlmann. Now cremants are generically French for 'bubbly' and as you can see from the name, this one issues from the Alsace region of France. The Harmonie de Rose derives its lovely pink color from Pinot Noir grapes. The nose is lightly floral and in the mouth, one finds citrus tones with red fruits, fruits des bois. It is full bodied and pleasantly long-lasting in the mouth.

Cremants are traditionally made in a similar method as Champagne (but not in that region, so therefore cannot be called by that name) and the French view them as a reasonable and festive alternative to Champagne. You can expect similar bottle presentation, bubbles and a lightness from all cremants. However, unlike Champagne, the bubbles in this Ruhlmann did not rise from the bottom of the glass the entire time with the same frequency as a Champagne.

The best news on this bottle is the price. Easily located stateside for under $20 a bottle, one can comfortably open a bottle of this cremant with almost anyone. Just don't make the mistake of calling it Champagne!

Cheers!