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Wine Description
The Story
Dosage: 8 g/L
Alcohol: 12.5%
Tasting note: The magnificent, deep robe is delicately effervescent, with rising vertical columns of tiny, elegant bubbles that are reminiscent of lace. The initial nose has discreet yet rich aromas of ladyfinger biscuit, grapefruit, orange peel and almond. These are followed by a more exotic note of passion fruit, pineapple, lime, silver ragwort and seaweed. Later still, the tantalising fragrance of brioche emerges. This is a complex, highly original set of aromas. The attack on the palate is delicate and develops gently. The bubbles seem to melt within the body of the wine, which is robust, and supported by the sugar content attains a comfortingly creamy texture that is particularly enjoyable, almost reminiscent of umami. Throughout the tasting, the acidity heightens, culminating in the finish, which is very long (over 10 seconds) and delivers a burst of intense flavours: acidity, sweetness and salinity. It closes with a chalky minerality, with aromas of honey and brioche lingering on the palate.
Wine Information
A remarkable cuvée with a delightful colour, exclusively produced from têtes-de-cuvée and grand-cru wines. Grape variety : Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. A testimony to the great skill of Alfred Gratien's cellar master.
Colour: Clear, shimmering with a golden sparkle
Sparkle: Very fine, extremely long-lasting mousse
Bouquet: A delicate mixture of honey, nuts and subtle hints of white fruits
Palate: Vinous and lingering with a fresh finish. Complex aromas of sweet white fruits building up to a gingerbread finale
Overall impression: A champagne which is both vinous and very fine with a lingering finish.
The eternal champagne
Alcohol: 12.0 % vol.
Vintage 2006
A cold winter and springtime frosts laid the foundations for this vintage of abundant yields (12,997 kg/ha). Uneventful flowering was followed by exceptionally hot and sunny weather, which lasted until August. A dank August left producers fearful but fortunately warm, bright conditions in September redressed the balance. Harvest commenced on September 9th, producing grapes high in sugar level but notably low on acidity. The general health of the grapes was sufficient, producing wines which excel over the preceding 2005 vintage, another warm and ample year. The year's greatest wines are supple and expressive and despite the richness they escape being overly heavy. Overt and welcoming upon launch, the best come with excellent capacity for ageing. Winey, and richly fruity characters, most Champagnes regrettably miss some tension and finesse. Wines of the vintage include Taittinger Comtes de Champagne, Krug Vintage and Dom Pérignon Rosé.
