Champagne Deutz, Amour de Deutz Rosé 2009 | France

By Dirk Smits

Wine of the WeekFebruary 8, 2021

Champagne Deutz was founded in 1838 in Aÿ, France, by two Germans – William Deutz and Pierre-Hubert Geldermann. Both founders believed that the quality of the vineyards was key to making great Champagne and so they acquired top quality plots in the region early on. The combination of their technical prowess, their marketing skills and will to succeed allowed them to expand rapidly and to establish their wine internationally. For generations, the sales of Champagne Deutz were thriving and the business was earning its place among the great Houses of Champagne. In 1882, Champagne Deutz even became a founding member of the Syndicat des Grandes Marques.

But then, a series of crises hit: the Champagne riots (wine growers being unhappy about pricing) of April 1911, which destroyed the Deutz headquarters and part of the cellars, followed by the First World War, the Great Depression and the German occupation of Champagne during World War II. Despite no money, no bottles and no men to make the wine during this difficult time, Champagne Deutz survived this challenging period and sustained growth throughout the following decades. Today, it continues to flourish, making an excellent line-up of wines.

One of their most prestigious wines is “Amour de Deutz,” named after the bronze cherub statue (un Amour in French) seated graciously in a stone shell, greeting visitors as they enter the gates to the Belle-Époque style building housing the offices and reception areas of the winery.

Champagne Deutz, Amour de Deutz Rosé 2009

Origin: Aÿ, France
Varietals: 55% Pinot Noir of which 8% Pinot Noir red wine, 45% Chardonnay
Sustainability: sustainable practices
Suggested retail price: $199.99
ABV: 12%

The rosé color was obtained by blending in 8% red wine (Pinot Noir from hillside vineyards in the Grand Cru village of Aÿ).

Amour de Deutz displays a bright light salmon rosé color and fine, creamy effervescence. Seductive and subtle on the nose, developing delicate aromas of crushed berries, white blossom and spices. The taste delivers a perfect balance between powerful flavors and a fine structure. Red fruit and chalky minerality with fresh acidity play together and continue in a long and refined finish. This is gorgeous Champagne that will continue to develop over the next few years.

Suggested food pairings: as a luxurious aperitif, grilled lobster, red mullet, Kobe beef carpaccio, lamb, veal, pigeon, Brillat-Savarin cheese.

> For more information, visit the Champagne Deutz official website.

> CHOCOLATES FOR LOVE? How about heart-shaped chocolates for your ValentineENJOY 10% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER with GAYOT’s exclusive promo code. ORDER NOW!