Although less well known than some of the other veuves (widows) in Champagne, this small family house can hold its head in terms of the authenticity, originality and quality of its wines. Established in 1856, the house is now run by Madame Monique Fourny and her two sons Charles-Henry and Emmanuel.
Based in the premier cru village of Vertus, the domaine owns some 40 parcels of vines across 12 ha of the Cote des Blancs. Many of the vines are old, having been planted in the 1960s and ’70s, and all are carefully supervised. Several aspects of the wine-making reflect skills Emmanuel acquired in Burgundy, such as fermentation in Burgundian barriques with batonnage.
Champagne Veuve Fourny La Subtilite Rose 1er Cru Vertus Brut
Pretty dark pink, almost ruby red color with intense foam and smooth bubbles. The nose is extremely intense from the moment you pour it in the glass so it is easy to feel the aromas from a distance. Great freshness, lots of fresh red fruits and not the tiring ultra ripe-sugary aromas found in many roses; plenty of citrus fruit, pink grapefruit, dough and overall a very pleasing and fresh nose. Very focused on the palate, with real tension, intensity and well defined flavors. Lenghty finish, persistent, dry, mineral and citric. Makes you want to eat. Really nice. (92/100)
I had this Champagne with my favorite easy to prepare dishes for sparkling: smoked salmon with green salad, red onion, capers, olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh lemon juice on top, and a classic when it comes to Champagne: Jamon Iberico Bellota. Minimum effort and maximum pleasure.
