Salmon Brut Rosé, Chaumuzy, Champagne, France NV
Champagne Salmon stands as a testament to the power of specialization and conviction. Founded by Michel Salmon in 1958 in the hamlet of Chaumuzy, this family estate has devoted four generations to championing Pinot Meunier—a grape historically overshadowed by its more celebrated cousins, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Today, Alexandre Salmon, the founder's grandson, continues this singular mission with unwavering dedication. His 10-hectare estate is planted to 85% Pinot Meunier, an extraordinary commitment in a region where most producers favor diversity. As one of only 28 members of the prestigious Club Trésors de Champagne, Salmon has earned recognition for his meticulous plot-by-plot vinification and his ability to reveal the noble character of Meunier. The family's passion for hot air ballooning—symbolized by the wicker basket on their labels—reflects their deep connection to this terroir and their commitment to elevating Meunier's reputation to new heights.
- WINEMAKER: Alexandre Salmon
- FARMING: Sustainable, with ongoing conversion to organic viticulture and low-yield farming practices
- VARIETY: 100% Pinot Meunier (20% saignée/maceration method, 5% still red wine from Meunier added for color)
- TERROIR: Sourced entirely from the estate's vineyards in Chaumuzy, located in the Vallée de l'Ardre within the Montagne de Reims. The terroir features clay-limestone soils that are ideally suited to Pinot Meunier, enhancing both the grape's natural minerality and fruit expression. Meunier's practical advantages in this region are significant—it buds later than other varieties, providing protection against late spring frosts, and ripens earlier, allowing harvest with optimal balance of ripeness and acidity. These characteristics make it exceptionally well-adapted to Champagne's challenging climate and Chaumuzy's specific microclimate.
- VINIFICATION: Primary fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine employs a combination of saignée method (skin maceration) for 20% of the blend and the addition of 5% still red Meunier wine to achieve its rosé color and character. Each vineyard parcel receives dedicated, individualized attention through Alexandre's signature plot-by-plot vinification, allowing for precise control and masterful blending. The wine undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle according to méthode traditionnelle. Dosage of 7 grams per liter.
- AGING: Élevage in stainless steel tanks, followed by aging on lees in bottle
- TASTING NOTES: This rosé displays an inviting hue with fine, persistent bubbles. The nose is expressive and fruit-forward, showcasing fresh strawberry aromatics and red berry character typical of Meunier. On the palate, the wine is accessible yet sophisticated, offering generous fruit flavors with a rounded, creamy texture. The natural fruitiness and softness of Meunier shine through, balanced by bright acidity that provides freshness and lift. The fine mousse creates an elegant, delicate sensation, while the wine's approachable style makes it ideal for social gatherings and sharing. The finish is clean and persistent, with subtle hints of citrus and stone fruit. This is a rosé that celebrates the pure varietal character of Pinot Meunier, demonstrating why the Salmon family has dedicated generations to this underappreciated grape.
- FOOD PAIRINGS: This accessible, fruit-driven rosé Champagne is wonderfully versatile for casual entertaining and meals. Serve it as an aperitif alongside charcuterie featuring prosciutto, saucisson sec, or country pâté. The wine's rounded texture and red fruit character make it a natural partner for salmon—whether grilled, poached, or served as gravlax with dill and mustard sauce. Try it with sushi and sashimi, where the bright acidity and effervescence cleanse the palate between bites. The wine's fruity profile complements strawberry salads, summer berry tarts, or slightly spicy dishes like Thai basil chicken or Korean BBQ short ribs. For a classic pairing, serve with beef or tuna tartare where the wine's vibrancy cuts through the richness. The Meunier's natural roundness also makes this rosé excellent with creamy cheeses like Brillat-Savarin or young Brie, as well as moderately aged Comté. The wine's festive character and easy-drinking style make it perfect for celebrations, picnics, and moments of conviviality.
Salmon Brut Rosé, Chaumuzy, Champagne, France NV
Champagne Salmon stands as a testament to the power of specialization and conviction. Founded by Michel Salmon in 1958 in the hamlet of Chaumuzy, this family estate has devoted four generations to championing Pinot Meunier—a grape historically overshadowed by its more celebrated cousins, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Today, Alexandre Salmon, the founder's grandson, continues this singular mission with unwavering dedication. His 10-hectare estate is planted to 85% Pinot Meunier, an extraordinary commitment in a region where most producers favor diversity. As one of only 28 members of the prestigious Club Trésors de Champagne, Salmon has earned recognition for his meticulous plot-by-plot vinification and his ability to reveal the noble character of Meunier. The family's passion for hot air ballooning—symbolized by the wicker basket on their labels—reflects their deep connection to this terroir and their commitment to elevating Meunier's reputation to new heights.
- WINEMAKER: Alexandre Salmon
- FARMING: Sustainable, with ongoing conversion to organic viticulture and low-yield farming practices
- VARIETY: 100% Pinot Meunier (20% saignée/maceration method, 5% still red wine from Meunier added for color)
- TERROIR: Sourced entirely from the estate's vineyards in Chaumuzy, located in the Vallée de l'Ardre within the Montagne de Reims. The terroir features clay-limestone soils that are ideally suited to Pinot Meunier, enhancing both the grape's natural minerality and fruit expression. Meunier's practical advantages in this region are significant—it buds later than other varieties, providing protection against late spring frosts, and ripens earlier, allowing harvest with optimal balance of ripeness and acidity. These characteristics make it exceptionally well-adapted to Champagne's challenging climate and Chaumuzy's specific microclimate.
- VINIFICATION: Primary fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine employs a combination of saignée method (skin maceration) for 20% of the blend and the addition of 5% still red Meunier wine to achieve its rosé color and character. Each vineyard parcel receives dedicated, individualized attention through Alexandre's signature plot-by-plot vinification, allowing for precise control and masterful blending. The wine undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle according to méthode traditionnelle. Dosage of 7 grams per liter.
- AGING: Élevage in stainless steel tanks, followed by aging on lees in bottle
- TASTING NOTES: This rosé displays an inviting hue with fine, persistent bubbles. The nose is expressive and fruit-forward, showcasing fresh strawberry aromatics and red berry character typical of Meunier. On the palate, the wine is accessible yet sophisticated, offering generous fruit flavors with a rounded, creamy texture. The natural fruitiness and softness of Meunier shine through, balanced by bright acidity that provides freshness and lift. The fine mousse creates an elegant, delicate sensation, while the wine's approachable style makes it ideal for social gatherings and sharing. The finish is clean and persistent, with subtle hints of citrus and stone fruit. This is a rosé that celebrates the pure varietal character of Pinot Meunier, demonstrating why the Salmon family has dedicated generations to this underappreciated grape.
- FOOD PAIRINGS: This accessible, fruit-driven rosé Champagne is wonderfully versatile for casual entertaining and meals. Serve it as an aperitif alongside charcuterie featuring prosciutto, saucisson sec, or country pâté. The wine's rounded texture and red fruit character make it a natural partner for salmon—whether grilled, poached, or served as gravlax with dill and mustard sauce. Try it with sushi and sashimi, where the bright acidity and effervescence cleanse the palate between bites. The wine's fruity profile complements strawberry salads, summer berry tarts, or slightly spicy dishes like Thai basil chicken or Korean BBQ short ribs. For a classic pairing, serve with beef or tuna tartare where the wine's vibrancy cuts through the richness. The Meunier's natural roundness also makes this rosé excellent with creamy cheeses like Brillat-Savarin or young Brie, as well as moderately aged Comté. The wine's festive character and easy-drinking style make it perfect for celebrations, picnics, and moments of conviviality.