The thoughtful Franck Pascal farms 4 hectares of vines near the village of Basilieux-sous-Marne in the Marne Valley. He took over the family estate in 1994 following the death of his younger brother. As a former army scientist, he was well aware of the effect that chemicals have in the agricultural cycle and therefore decided to farm biodynamically, a very unusual step for the Champagne region. He finally achieved biodynamic status in 2002. Grapes grown are Pinot Meunier (57%), Pinot Noir (37%) and Chardonnay (6%), all planted on south facing slopes composed mainly of clay. The base of this delicious rose is 'Sagesse' (94%) and equal parts Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. It pairs particularly well with wild mushrooms or hearty vegetable dishes.

An elegant salmon pink in colour. The mousse is delicate and persistent and the nose is expressive with aromas of wild cherry and citrus with a pronounced minerality. The palate is concentrated and vinous with strong red berry flavours leading to a lingering finish. A very graceful and refreshing rose. Try with pan-fried medallions of monkfish wrapped in smoked bacon, tomato tarte tatin or large Portobello mushrooms stuffed with hazelnut, bacon and apple