Taittinger's 2004 Brut Comtes de Champagne Rosé is showing brilliantly, bursting from the glass with an expressive bouquet that mingles aromas of rhubarb compote, red plums and spices with notions of dried white flowers, pastry cream and toasted brioche. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, broad and vinous, with impressive depth and chalky structure, succulent acids and a long, precise finish. While the 2004 Comtes Rosé is drinking beautifully today, it is evolving comparatively slowly by the standards of this classically balanced but somewhat rapidly evolving vintage, and it should offer immense pleasure for the better part of two decades.

Taittinger's 2004 Brut Rosé Comtes de Champagne is a delicate, perfumed wine. In 2004 the Rosé shows a quite a bit of Chardonnay character in its precise, chiseled fruit and long, minerally finish. After several hours the wine continued to dazzle with its crystalline purity and fabulous balance. This is a jewel of a wine from Taittinger. This is Lot L8357WA04300, disgorged November, 2008 (not indicated on label).

Wine Advocate December, 2010 Taittinger’s 2004 Brut Rose Comtes de Champagne is a delicate, perfumed wine. In 2004, the Rose shows quite a bit of Chardonnay character in its precise, chiseled fruit and long, minerally finish. After several hours the wine continued to dazzle with its crystalline purity and fabulous balance. This is a jewel of a wine from Taittinger. This is Lot L8357WA04300, disgorged November, 2008 (not indicated on label). Anticipated maturity: 2014-2034. ()

Taittinger’s Comtes de Champagne rosé couldn’t be more different to the blanc, often deep and boomingly Pinot Noir-centred with unashamed fruitiness. 2004’s slightly quieter nature seems to suit it well, though, and 20 years on the wine is a delight. Nectarine, anise and apricot kernel are met with succulent blood orange and redcurrant in a wine still wearing plenty of youthful energy, far from drying out yet gastronomic and layered. It’s medium-bodied, pure and straight for this cuvée, entering a delicious window for current drinking.

70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay (100% from grand cru vineyards). 8 years' ageing on lees before disgorgement. Dosage 10 g/l. Aroma of Victoria plums and a touch of spice and cedar. Very powerful – the power almost overriding the flavour but there is also great tension and a fine structure. Bold and needs time. (JH)