The discerning drinker: Pink champagne for Valentine's day
My wife would probably call it a failure of romantic imagination, but I'm recommending rosé champagne for Valentine's, as usual. Value for money it ain't: I haven't found any non-champagne rosé sparklers I liked this year. And bluntly, I think the non-rosé versions of the following cuvées are all better (and cheaper). But if it must be pink, these are my picks. Otherwise, the best non-rosé offer around that I've seen is Taittinger Brut Reserve NV at £23.32 in Sainbury's.
Billecart-Salmon Rosé NV (from Harrods, Lea and Sandeman, Berry Bros, Jeroboams, from around £60)
Billecart is one of the few producers to make something of a speciality of its rosés. Their non-vintage is elegant and fine, fresh but well balanced.
Lanson Rosé Brut NV (widely available; best offer is Tesco, reduced to £17.49 until 14 Feb)
Lanson's rosé is a cut above other big brands, elegant, light and crisp - good value while half-price at Tesco.
Bollinger La Grande Année Rosé 2002 (Jeroboams, Waitrose,Selfridges, from £85).
Bollinger's non-vintage rosé is among my favourites, but the 2002 is head and shoulders above anything else under £100. Beautiful, rich nose with lovely depth and complexity. Quality costs
