de Sousa Brut Rosé Champagne Cuvée des Caudalies NV

95 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(2011 base vintage; disgorged 6 April 2018; 90% chardonnay from Avize, Oger and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, 10% Aÿ pinot red wine matured in oak casks for 1  year; average vine age of over 60 years; 100% vinified in small oak barrels; no reserves; 3g/L dosage). Such is the powerful colour, pure fruit and delicate structure of De Sousa’s red wine that a 10% dose transforms a pristine blanc de blancs into a characterful and multifaceted savoury rosé, more deeply spicy and complex than ever. Relentless beauty of haunting plum liqueur and fruit mince spice hover in suspension amidst the barrel fermentation nuances of charcuterie. Pinot noir brings body and succulence, intricately entwined and perfectly integrated with the deep-set chalk of De Sousa, concluding with wonderfully persistent, frothy salt minerality of exceptional line and length. With no reserves to lean on, this is a graceful triumph for 2011. (2020-2021)"

94 points William Kelley (Wine Advocate): "[$166 list] The latest rendition of De Sousa's NV Brut Rosé Cuvée des Caudalies is very pretty, unwinding in the glass with a delicate bouquet of tangerine and freshly baked bread mingled with subtle hints of dried fruits, cherry pits and spices. Medium to full-bodied, elegantly vinous and layered, it's concentrated but understated, with a seamless profile that's enlivened by a pearly mousse, concluding with a sapid finish. Drink: 2021-2031. (Sep 2021)"

93 points James Suckling: "Rust-colored with aromas of marmalade, grapefruit peel, blood oranges, saltines, walnuts and salted caramel. Rich, oxidative and zesty with tangy acidity and fine bubbles. Dry, sharp and focused finish. 90% chardonnay and 10% pinot noir. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. From organically grown grapes. Dosage 5g/L. Disgorged in March 2020. Drink now. (7/11/22)"