Dérot-Delugny "Bissextile" Brut Rosé

This wine is named "bissextile" after leap years- because they can only have the right conditions for making the red wine that goes into this champagne about once every four years. The 14% Pinot Noir comes from a special plot, and is made in Burgundy barrels and added to the 43% Chardonnay and 43% Meunier that is vinified white. The wine has a wonderful pink color, a spicy nose with some wild strawberry fruit and great sourdough toast. In the mouth it has some nice richness, but it finishes light and lovely. -Gary Westby, K&L