L’Instant de Passions Rosé

Wine description for L’Instant de Passions Rosé Extra Brut by Waris-Larmandier

Colour & appearance

Distinct coral, salmon pink with a lively, initially exuberant mousse that then settles into a fine creaminess.

Nose

A rosé that speaks more of the soil than of fruit: chalk, wet stone, a hint of autolysis. With air and warmth, wild strawberry, pink grapefruit and blood orange join in, along with dried herbs and increasingly patisserie notes – almond, hazelnut, a trace of pastry.

Palate

Precise rather than opulent. The Chardonnay base brings salinity and chalky tension, while the Pinot Noir contributes red berry fruit and a delicate spiciness. The mousse feels almost silky – a consequence of the reduced pressure. Extra Brut, taut, with clear gastronomic ambition and noticeable ageing potential.

Finish

Long, mineral, with a chalky aftertaste and a saline invitation to the next forkful.

Terroir & origin

The nine hectares of Waris-Larmandier lie in the Grand Cru villages of Avize, Cramant, Chouilly, Oger and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger – the chalk-driven heart of the Côte des Blancs. Founded in 1989 by Marie-Hélène Waris and Vincent Larmandier, the house is now run by their three children. Demeter-certified since 2020.

Grape variety & vinification

80% Chardonnay from the five Grand Crus, 20% Pinot Noir from the Côte des Bar. The base wines ferment spontaneously and mature separately in 600-litre demi-muids and traditional Champagne casks.

Food recommendations

A Champagne for the table: salmon tataki, duck breast with orange jus, tuna carpaccio, alongside aged Comté or tomato risotto.

Special features

Jean-Philippe Waris bottles with only 4.5 instead of the usual 6 bar of bottle pressure – which gives this rosé its creamy, fine texture. Biodynamic viticulture, spontaneous fermentation and the decision to forgo heavy dosage make it one of the most distinctive rosé Champagnes of the Côte des Blancs.