Champagne Thiénot & Penfolds NV Brut Rosé

Winemaking and Drinking

Penfolds is back in Champagne ! The newest release in the Penfolds collaboration with the legendary Champagne House Thiénot is a non vintage Champagne Brut Rosé — this is the fourth sparkling collaboration between the two giants of the wine and champagne world.

Origins

The love story with France officially rekindled in 2019, when Penfolds announced the partnership and unveiled three show stopping Champagnes from the iconic 2012 vintage: a Chardonnay Pinot Noir Cuvée, a Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs, and a Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs. Each one told its own story of craftsmanship, elegance, and that unmistakable Penfolds flair. Now, with this very first Brut Rosé, Penfolds are turning up the romance even further. It’s a bottle that embodies the shared vision of Thiénot’s chef de cave, Nicholas Uriel, and Penfold's own Chief Winemaker, Peter Gago two masters blending tradition, innovation, and a dash of daring.

Some wines carry with them a sense of quiet inevitability, as though they were destined to come into being. The Champagne Thiénot & Penfolds NV Brut Rosé feels like such a creation. On one hand you have the precision and savoir faire of a respected Champagne house whose roots are steeped in French tradition. On the other you have the boldness and exploratory spirit of an Australian icon, known for reshaping the conversation around fine wine. Together they have produced a sparkling wine that straddles continents while retaining an unmistakable sense of place.

Tasting

From the first pour, the wine speaks with elegance. Its colour is a radiant blush, delicate yet confident, promising both refinement and energy. Lift the glass and the aromas swirl upward with a bouquet that seems alive  red berries reminiscent of just picked strawberries, subtle notes of pomegranate, and a faint whisper of rose petals. Beneath these brighter tones lies a gentle suggestion of pastry and spice, offering depth without overshadowing the fruit.

On the palate the wine is poised, carrying a fine bead of bubbles that dance gracefully rather than aggressively. The initial impression is of freshness, a vivid red fruit core wrapped in citrus zest. As it unfolds, the wine reveals texture and complexity. A subtle creaminess broadens the mid palate, while a chalky mineral character provides structure and length. The finish is persistent, elegant, and tinged with a savoury note that invites another sip.

Reviews and Accolades

The NV Brut Rosé has already begun attracting attention from critics and judges across the globe. Recognitions include high scores in respected international tastings and placements in premium wine lists that celebrate craftsmanship and innovation. Its accolades are less a surprise than an affirmation that this collaboration has struck the right chord.

This wine is not just a curiosity born of partnership but a serious expression of artistry. It embodies the finesse of Champagne and the adventurous spirit of Australia, bridging cultures in a way that feels natural rather than forced. To enjoy it is to taste the conversation between two distinct voices that somehow sing in harmony.