Although the savvy wine lover can sip and savor an array of enticing and delicious sparkling wines from regions around the world, there’s a chilled bottle of Champagne waiting to be poured right now… and it’s calling your name. Although many perceive that Champagne is exclusive and beyond the average winelover’s price range (that’s true in some cases), there are plenty of labels that are just as affordable to purchase as they are magnificent to sip. Sent as samples are the following three examples of premium quality Champagne that are worth every. single. penny. (Click the name of the Champagne for more information.)
Pop the cork from these exceptional wines from Champagne on New Year’s Eve with a favorite someone, this upcoming weekend with popcorn and a movie or tonight with a glorious French cheese and charcuterie platter. And don’t forget. Champagne only comes from Champagne, France!
Champagne André Jacquardt Brut Expérience 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs ($99.99)
A “grower Champagne” run by 5th generation family members, the Domaine of Andre Jacquardt comprises 24 hectares of vines in the Côte de Blancs. Of 100% Chardonnay, the wine was vinified in stainless steel and old oak barrels then aged for 5 years on the lees before disgorgement.
On the nose, I found notes of overripe citrus, orchard fruit, grilled pineapple, grilled lemon, dried apricot, baked apple, toast and hint of beeswax. A laser beam of bright acidity was surrounded by ripe green apples, brioche and raw almonds in this beautiful wine offering a lush, decadent mouthfeel and a lingering finish.
Boizel Brut Réserve Champagne NV ($49.99)
Boizel is noted for selecting high quality grapes for the wines thanks to his vast knowledge of each village and hillside as well as his longstanding and positive relationships with the growers. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes from Champagne’s Grands and Premiers Crus were blended with Pinot Meunier from the best crus in the region for this striking Champagne. Juice from the first pressings are used with 30% of reserve wines from the previous two vintages in the cuvée in order to guarantee freshness and consistency. After the second fermentation, the wine is aged for three years on its lees in the bottle.
Intense aromas of yellow flowers, overripe orchard fruit, herbs, grilled tropical fruit, baked bread and the slightest hint of strawberry pulp were pervasive and enticing. On the palate, vibrant acidity, toasted fruits, butter and subtle notes of cream were complex and rich. And those dancing bubbles!!
Champagne Bruno Paillard Rosé Première Cuvée ($60)
Founded in 1981 by then 27-year old entrepreneur Bruno Paillard, Bruno Paillard Champagne House has worked with families who have cultivated grapes in the region for many years. Paillard purchased his first vineyard in 1994 with three Grand Cru hectares in Oger in the Côte des Blancs. Now he has 79 acres of vineyards including 15 crus (Villages); 35 acres of the total come from Grand and Premier cru vineyards. The 79 acres represent 50% of its supply (an exceptionally high percentage for a Champagne house). Chardonnay vineyards comprise 29 acres, Pinot Noir are cultivated on 32 acres, and Pinot Meunier are grown in 18 acres. All are located in different locations boasting unique terroir and microclimates. (For last year’s article about my conversation with Alice Paillard, please click here.)
Bright, vivacious and flavorful, this delicate Champagne is of both white and red juice of Pinot Noir grapes. The white is from a quick press and separation of the skins and the red is obtained by long maceration of the juice on the skins. Pure and dry, aromas and tastes of red currants, cherries, strawberries, and violets were absolutely joyful and I noted strength and power mid-palate. The long finish was exceptional.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
