RARE CHAMPAGNE 'Rare' Brut Rose Millesime 2008 MAGNUM (los)

Description

IN BRIEF
Rare Champagne 'Rare' Brut Rosé Millésime 2008 is an exceptional and sought-after expression, crafted under the expert guidance of Champagne legend Régis Camus. This limited production wine represents the eleventh release since 1976, with the 2008 vintage showcasing the character derived from extraordinary weather conditions. Its visually stunning pale copper hue is complemented by an inviting nose filled with aromas of redcurrant, almond, and spring flowers, gradually revealing notes of lychee, pink grapefruit, and sweet spice. On the palate, it is vibrant and expressive, balancing a complexity of flavours with a long, lingering finish. Awarded 99 points by James Suckling, this remarkable Champagne is ideal for special occasions and can be enjoyed now or cellared until 2035.

ABOUT THIS CHAMPAGNE
Rare Champagne 'Rare' Brut Rosé Millésime 2008 is an exceptional and highly sought-after expression, distinguished by its limited production. Since its inception, only eleven vintages have been released since 1976, including notable years like 1979, 1985, 1990, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2006, 2007, and this remarkable 2008 vintage. Under the expert guidance of Champagne legend Régis Camus, who has been honoured as Sparkling Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine Challenge eight times, Rare Champagne epitomises meticulous winemaking against the backdrop of nature's challenges.

This vintage is a testament to the resilience of the vines; the 2008 release follows a year marked by extraordinary weather conditions that contributed to the wine's character. The resulting Champagne is a bold and sensual Rosé that pays homage to the minerality and fresh style typical of Rare Champagne.

Visually, Rare Rosé 2008 presents a crystal-clear appearance with a radiant, pale copper hue that is visually stunning. The nose opens with inviting aromas of redcurrant, almond, and delicate spring flowers, gradually revealing more pronounced notes of lychee, pink grapefruit, and sweet spice. This aromatic complexity sets the stage for a delightful tasting journey.

On the palate, Rare Rosé 2008 is delicate, vibrant, and expressive, showcasing all the qualities that make this vintage exceptional. The combination of flavours creates an experience of great length, complexity, and longevity, allowing for a beautifully balanced drinking experience.

Rare Champagne 'Rare' Brut Rosé Millésime 2008 is the perfect choice for celebrating special moments or enjoying during intimate gatherings. Whether sipped on its own or paired with elegant dishes, this exceptional champagne promises an unforgettable experience that reflects the artistry and heritage of the Rare Champagne lineage. Indulge in the richness and depth that this remarkable expression has to offer and savour the true essence of luxury.

JAMES SUCKLING 99 points
A restrained Champagne that displays the producer’s style quite clearly. On the nose it shows coconut, white chocolate, chalk, lemon zest, green apples and iodine. Amazing white chocolate flavors on the palate. It’s full-bodied and zesty with tingling bubbles and a silky texture in the finish. Great tension and complexity, with a lemony finish. Disgorged in 2023. Drink or hold.

DECANTER 96 points
Tasted by: Simon Field MW
(at Rare Champagne tasting, London, 29 Oct 2019)
Part of A taste of Rare Champagne with Régis Camus
Drinking Window: 2019 - 2030
In the first decade of this century, two years really stand out for Champagne: 2002 and 2008, although many now think that the cooler, more poised 2008 may win out in the end. Described with the two words, ‘precisely gracious’, the 2008 will be the next Blanc release. For the time being we have the fabulous rosé to enjoy, which is far lighter than the 2007 and much more refined. Cellar master Régis Camus waxes lyrical, comparing the colour to a ballerina’s pump or even the light filtering through the stained glass of the Basilica in Reims. Lovely evocative comparisons for a lovely, highly accomplished wine. Lychee, verbena and a basket of crisp red fruits all conspire with almonds, nutmeg and soft spice to shape this truly outstanding wine.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 96 points
Reviewed by: Kristaps Karklins
Drink Date: 2020 - 2035
Incorporating 13% red wine from Bouzy, the 2008 Rare Rosé Millésime—disgorged in July 2018 with a dosage of eight grams per liter—has evolved superbly. It opens with a deep bouquet of red cherry, cranberry and passion fruit, mingling with buttered toast and a hint of rosemary, framed by a deft touch of smoky reduction. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied and elegantly muscular, with excellent concentration underpinned by bright acidity, concluding with a long, toasty finish. Already compelling upon release, it has since gained in depth, standing alongside the 2012 as one of the two most complete and harmonious expressions of Rare Rosé to date.

WINE ENTHUSIAST 94 points
This intense wine is chock full of red-fruit flavors and beautiful acidity. Still young it has structure as well as swathes of fruit. The concentration of flavors and ability to age further make it a great wine. Drink it ideally from 2022. — Roger Voss

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ABOUT RARE CHAMPAGNE
Rare Champagne is a prestigious and exclusive champagne brand produced by the renowned Maison Ruinart, one of the oldest champagne houses in France, founded in 1729. Known for its commitment to quality and elegance, Rare Champagne represents the pinnacle of luxury within the champagne category. The brand focuses on crafting limited-edition cuvées that celebrate the exceptional characteristics of meticulously selected grapes from the finest vineyards in the Champagne region.

The hallmark of Rare Champagne is its meticulous production process, which emphasizes using only the best grapes, primarily from grand cru vineyards. Each vintage is carefully crafted to showcase the unique terroir and the distinct flavour profiles associated with the rare harvest. The wines undergo extended aging on the lees, allowing for greater complexity and depth.

Rare Champagne is celebrated for its elegant, refined style, characterised by bright acidity and rich, nuanced flavours. The signature cuvée, Rare Brut, is often noted for its vibrant fruit notes, floral undertones, and mineral complexity, making it a favourite among champagne connoisseurs.

The brand's commitment to excellence has earned it significant acclaim in the wine community, and each bottle is a testament to the artistry of champagne production. Rare Champagne is presented in an elegant, bespoke bottle, underscoring its luxurious status and making it an ideal gift for special occasions.

As an invitation to experience the finest in champagne, Rare Champagne is perfect for celebrating life’s milestones or simply indulging in a moment of luxury. With its blend of history, craftsmanship, and exclusivity, Rare Champagne continues to captivate those who seek a truly remarkable and memorable sipping experience.