Taittinger Prestige Rosé is Just OK 

Champagne is more than a style of wine. For me, it’s a concept, it’s an event. Miller High Life was called “The Champagne of beers” trying (and perhaps failing) to associate itself with the prestige Champagne’s reputation carries. But, like all types of wine, there are levels to Champagne ranging from the sublime (such as Krug) to the mediocre (such as Veuve). And for me — unfortunately — Taittinger Prestige Rosé falls in the latter category.

Now, Taittenger Brut is a darn fine bubbly, despite it’s entry-level reputation and relatively modest price tag. I’ve enjoyed it on several occasions and wouldn’t turn my nose up at a glass. Which made me excited to try its bright-pink brother — I’ve always enjoyed mixing in a Rosé from time to time, and the Prestige Rosé retails for over $10 more at the LCBO than the Brut — surely it would be even better?

Unfortunately not. Here’s what I thought of the Taittinger Prestige Rosé Champagne:

Taittinger Prestige Rosé Review

They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but they didn’t say a damn thing about wine. Before I get into my gripes, I do want to shout out just how damn pretty this bubbly is — it pours a fizzy dark pink that just looks stunning in a flute (though I’m obligated to note Champagne is best served in a wider, white wine-style glass). If you’re opening this bottle for an occasion in which you’re the only snob there, I reckon those you share it with will feel they’ve enjoyed something pretty special with their eyes alone.

But enough with the cover — on to the book. To achieve the above colour, Taittinger Prestige Rosé is a blend of 70% Chardonnay with 30% Pinot Noir — enough to introduce some red-wine characteristics for sure. It has a nice enough nose, with bursts of strawberry, a kiss of cherry syrup, and a little bit of ozone at the end. Certainly not unpleasant, but not particularly exciting.

After a sip, the “meh” vibes increase. Taittinger Prestige Rosé has a medium body, medium acidity, medium effervesence….you probably see where I’m going here. There are very pronounced red fruit vibes, think fruit smoothie with strawberries, raspberries and maraschino cherries. That’s all fine and well, but I found the fruit almost overwhelmed some of my fave Champagne notes. There was a touch of limestone, and a very muted breadiness. The finish was relatively long, and the breadiness more pronounced, but then a bit of a sourness came through of which I wasn’t overly keen.

Overall, it was just ok. Nothing to write angry emails about, but I’ve seen other reviews for this bubbly brimming with praise. For it’s relatively steep price, I’d probably reach for another bottle, one easier to enjoy sipping slow.