Since its inception in the late 19^th century, Vilmart & Cie has always been a grower Champagne house working exclusively with estate owned vines. This intimacy of their land is now embodied in winemaker Laurent Champs, who represents the 5^th generation of the family to run the domaine. Most of their holdings reside in the Premier Cru sites of Rilly-la-Montagne and Villers-Allerand in the Montagne de Reims. The house style here calls for wines to be fermented and aged in oak barrels of various sizes; and never undergo malolactic fermentation. A 90/10 blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this is a vinous-forward style with 15% of the Pinot Noir appearing as a still red wine. The current offering is a 2016 base with reserve wines from the 2014-2015 harvest completing the cuvée. The aromas seduce with fresh raspberries, cherry pith, and strawberry cream with floral undercurrents of lilacs and dried roses. The lively acidity gently carries soft, finessed bubbles that create a frothy mousse that glides back and forth over a rounded, silky texture. Finishes crisp and dry with chalky floral tones. A wine of great purity and balance, this ‘Cuvée Rubis’ is perhaps the most elegant rosé Champagne in the entire region.