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Wine Description
The Story
Blend: 70 % Pinot Noir, 30 % Chardonnay (5 % Bouzy Rouge)
Age of vines: 40 years
Village: Bouzy
Terroir: Limestone subsoil
Winemaking: Non-malolactic fermentation
The Special Club cuvée is unique to the Champagne region and is only made in years which are blessed with an exceptional harvest. The selection process comprises of a two-test system: firstly tasting the blend of the still wines and secondly tasting the champagne. Judged by 50 winemakers and made with the best vintage in the purest tradition, Paul Bara presents this Special Club selection to you.
In 1833 Paul Bara Champagne House was established in the village of Bouzy, a site of renowned terroir classified as Grand Cru (100%). Since then the House of Bara has been handed down among generations for more than 180 years. While maintaining family tradition and character, Bara champagne has embraced evolving technologies to craft the perfect champagne with the aid of a modern press, thermo-regulated vats and extension of the existing cellars. Above all, Bara champagne operates with principles of respect for the land and environment with which Bouzy champagne grapes are grown.
TASTING NOTES: A brilliant pink grapefruit colored, with very fine bubbles. The nose is very fresh with some citrus notes and raspberries . The palate shows a lot of finesse and elegance, a perfect balance and a nice fruity finish.
FOOD PAIRING: The finesse calls for a quail fillet pan-fried with its cooking juice.
Vintage 2004
A great example of how large yields do not necessarily mean poor quality in Champagne. As a reaction to the previous year's low yields, the vines produced one of the largest crops on record. The growing season proceeded without major difficulties but the bumper crop called for bud thinning. August brought about cooler weather and some rains, increasing the risk of rot. The massive crop, averaging 13,990 kg/ha, was picked from September 18th onwards. The quality was a pleasant surprise; vibrant wines with appropriate intensity, refined charm and refreshing lightness. This vintage impresses me more and more, and I feel tempted to give it the full five stars. It comes with a rare balance of freshness, lightness, yet fine aromatic intensity. Post-release, this vintage has proven to be slow to age, and elegant wines are likely to keep on ageing gracefully. Dom Pérignon and Louis Roederer Cristal both excelled.
