Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
75cl * Vegan & Organic * 12.5% ABV * Champagne, France
Maison Taittinger dates back to an original house founded in 1734 by Jacques Fourneaux, however its links to the Taittinger family started in 1931, after Pierre Taittinger was stationed at Chateau de la Marquetterie in Pierry and fell in love with the property. Today, it is still owned and managed by the Taittinger family with its headquarters in Reims, above a sprawling warren of Roman cellars, where the wines are allowed to age slowly.
Cuvée Prestige is the finest Champagne that a house produces, Comtes de Champagne is the ultimate expression of Taittinger. Made only in exceptional years from the best Grand Cru fruit and in small quantities from the first pressings, it is ‘La crème de la crème’. Presented in 18th century antique style bottles, this hand-crafted Champagne is aged 18 metres underground in the UNESCO status Saint Nicaise cellars in Reims, for 10 years before being released. This 2009 vintage presents an accomplished and brilliant Comtes de Champagne Rosé, with a signature that is both sun-drenched and light at the same time.
The champagne comprises 30% Chardonnay Grands Crus from the most prestigious Côte des Blancs terroirs, combined with 70% Pinot Noir Grands Crus sourced from the Montagne de Reims. This vintage is a vivid pink with light amber hues which highlight a delicate effervescence. On the nose, there are invigorating notes of ripe red fruit in their finest aromatic expressions, lending the wine a real energy. Notes of Morello cherry, blood orange and vineyard peach, underscored with a hint of minerality. This is followed by notes of wild strawberry compote and candied citrus fruit. The palate is incredibly fruity, revealing the full power of the limestone Grand Crus terroirs from which it heralds. Held taut by a superb chalky acidity and exquisite freshness, the palate extends in beautiful, aromatic purity.
A beautiful colour of bronze and orange with some pink at the end. Aromas of dried strawberry and orange peel with orange blossom and other flowers. Medium to full body with a round, creamy texture, very fine bubbles and a lovely, long finish. Plenty of subtle pie-crust and biscuit flavours at the end. Yet it remains so complex. Very vinous. Drink or hold. James Suckling 99 points