Wow! This is sparkling wine from the same appellation as the Touraine Blanc is a revelation. This is going to be your pool sipper, that can dress up a special occasion as well. It's a pale cherry, and the bubbles are energized. The aromas are of melons, strawberry, and a hint of citrus. The palate is lively and balanced with the berry and melon fruit holding together, braced by the tangy citrus zip. There seems to be an extra dimension of complexity on the palate, something bold and brambly. And though it's less than half of the blend, the inclusion of Côt (or Malbec), is likely responsible for this extra dimension.

Domaine d'Orfeuilles was founded in 1947 by Paul Herivault in Vouvray. Their holdings include 20 hectares upon clay and clay/limestone soils with a high density of flint. Planted mostly to Chenin Blanc for their signature Vouvrays, the Herivaults tend a few red varieties as well. For their Touraine Brut Rosé, the grapes are Côt (40%), Cabernet Franc (40%), and Grolleau (20%). Now managed by Bernard Herivault, assisted by his son, Arnaud, the domaine has been farming organically since 2010, and is now certified. This fizz is made in the traditional Champagne style, fermented first in heat-controlled tank, then in the bottle. The bottles are disgorged 9-12 months later, and then released, ready to drink.