Armand de Brignac, Ace of Spades Rosé, Champagne, France

The second cuvée, launched approximately three years after the Gold bottle. Fifteen percent of red wine from Cattier’s own vineyard in Montagne de Reims is added to the final blend, which is made from the 2009, 2010 and 2012 vintages. It's made from 50% Pinot Noir, 40% Pinot Meunier and 10% Chardonnay. There's an abundance of dark fruit with notes of black cherry and blackcurrant. While full bodied, it's fresh, pure and vibrant, with delicate red fruits. The tangy acidity keeps the wine energised and fresh. Like the Gold Brut, it feels much drier than its 8.5g/l dosage.

A confident copper blush and an immediately seductive nose of soft spice, red currants and sweet almond. The blend here is dominated by the Pinots, with 50% Noir and 40% Meunier leaving only a whisper of elegant Chardonnay. The three contributory vintages in question are 2013, 2014 and 2015, youthful therefore, yet the wine does not lack for depth and complexity. A beguiling almost savoury depth is immediately evident, courtesy in no small measure to the quality of the red wine, 15% added as Pinot Noir from exceptionally old vines in the village of Ludes. Old vines and a young wine; wisdom, depth and youthful energy in this instance make up a winning combination