Andre Clouet Rose No.5 NV

So, when a new wine arrives from him, especially a new take on what is, I think, his reference point bottling, it's a mix of excitement and curiosity.

The new bottling is much in the same model as the Number 3, our usual Rose from Clouet. However, here the fruit is entirely Grand Cru, all from the heartland of Bouzy, bringing more of the Pinot roundness and generosity. There is also an extended lees contact, and time in the cellar before release. Essentially like a somewhat bulked up version of the original. Better vineyards used and then more time to build on lees and in the bottle before release.

He is always thinking of things like this that could bring even more panache and thrill. Always cautious though. He tends not to release things until he has trialled them and got his style down. So, as with every new Clouet Bottling, you know you are getting his latest and greatest. The thing the man has been tinkering with in whatever spare time he somehow conjures from his seemingly never ending work schedule.

This has just arrived, as in this week. Straight off the ship and into our cellar.

Bold, full-flavoured rosé Champagne with pronounced fruit and floral flavours including red rose petal, pot-pourri, and baguette crust. Delicious wine in quite a mellow style with restrained acidity. Seriously good Champagne. (95) BOB CAMBLELL MW

Floral, fresh and distinctive with a mix of light red berry fruit aromas, balanced  and even autolysis. Quite delicious on the palate with a red cherry, red apple and fine red strawberry core, baked goods and a whisper of spice. Refreshing acid line and soft plush mousse carries all the flavour CAM DOUGLAS MS