We tasted: Nicolas Feuillatte Palme d’Or Rosé Vintage 1996

The Palme d’Or Rosé 1996 is a surprising champagne! Most of the reviews from 2014 to 2016 say it should be drunk soon, with no potential for keeping. We took however the chance and bought it in 2020. What a wonderful surprise! I admit, the bubbles are so fine that perhaps those enjoying more cheerful champagne would feel slightly disappointed. But, to compensate, the nose and taste are just beautiful. This champagne is a blend of Les Riceys Pinot Noir grapes (that provides the “Burgundy” style) and of Bouzy’s Pinot Noir reserve wines (used for the liqueur de dosage). The method known as “saignée” (skin-contact method) gives it a ruby colour with layers of reflection that distinguish the Palme d’Or from all other rosé champagnes. Of course, during the long ageing in the cellar, this ruby turns into a copper/dark orange colour. Magnificent nose with ripe raspberries, raisins, lemony quince, honey and vanilla. On the palate, it is rich and toasty, with hints of honey, red berries marmalade and nuts. The wine has a persistent mousse with a firm but elegant finish. The aftertaste leaves you with a mixture of vanilla, dry raspberries and cherries. Very important: mostly due to the long cellar time, it needs at least 30-40 minutes of aeration before drinking.