Ben's Bubbly: Simonsig 2007 Brut Rosé

Our little Ben is starting to really grow! He has put on about five pounds in only 11 weeks. He is also starting to move around quite a bit. He'll roll to his side, but not all the way over yet (thank goodness!) and he will spin around on his back and shimmy across the floor a few inches at a time. I hope that he gives us a few more months until we have to actually baby proof the house. The cats will also be in for a new way of doing things once Mr. Wiggles is fully mobile. We also took Ben to the pool for the first time and he enjoyed dipping his feet in the water while rocking a highly fashionable swim-shirt and baby shades!

As we've journeyed on our sparkling safari, we've tried lots of new and different wines and this week is no different. In addition to the official installment, I've had the opportunity to try some special bubbly thanks to some generous acquaintances. Over the past two weeks, a 1997 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs, 1998 Gosset Celebris, 1990 Egly-Ouriet Millésimé 100% Grand Cru and 1990 Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Rare have entertained my taste buds. While they may not be official Ben's Bubblies, they do deserve a mention as being excellent opportunities to expand my experience with sparkling wines of the world. This week's wine may not be a traditional grape to make sparkling wine, but it nevertheless was fun and I recommend trying some for yourself.

2007 Simonsig Brut Rosé

This wine is a beautiful pink color, reminiscent of the pink in a peach where the flesh meets the pit. Lovely aromatics on the nose suggest strawberries, cranberries, peaches and rose petals. Tart flavors of stone fruits and flowers are complemented by a slight yeastiness. The finish is short and marred by a slightly unpleasant metallic aftertaste. Overall, this rosé is not a bad wine for the price and a fun wine from the continent of Africa. 12% abv Purchased $15. Good (tasted 6/17/11)