by Dimitris Gouravas

Taittinger – Comtes de Champagne Blanc – de Blancs Grands Crus 2013

The fate of a dynasty

The vitality and reach of the Taittinger brand is based on the values of those who embody it today. These values were inherited from those who created the Champagne House. Over three generations, several people have left their mark on the history, spirit and style of Taittinger and, beyond that, on the image of Champagne itself. Vision, inspiration, strategy, growth and influence have contributed to the permanent shaping of the family’s destiny and the Champagne House’s reputation. Taittinger House is a family affair and has around 288 hectares of vineyards in the best locations of Campania, between the Côte des Blancs, the Vallée de la Marne and the Montagne de Reims. Their philosophy is summed up in “to have gold in our bottles we must first have gold in our hands”. For this reason the winegrowers work passionately in the vineyard trying to get the best grapes for the House’s fine champagnes.

Year

In Champagne, patience is a virtue shared by both the vintner and the oenologist. It is a combination of weather and time that gives life and strength to grapes and vines. It is also the time that shapes the wines and then the evolution of the champagne in the depths of the cellars.

Origin

Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs is characterized by its composition of Chardonnay grapes, which come exclusively from the five famous villages designated as “Grand Cru”: Avize, Chouilly, Cramant, Mesnil-sur-Oger and Oger.

Technical data

Only the very best cuvées are used in the production of Comtes de Champagne in order to ensure finesse. Of the wines that make up its composition, 5% have been aged for 4 months in oak barrels, a third of which is replaced every year. Passing through the barrels improves the characteristics of the final blend giving mainly the toasted notes but also volume in the mouth and complexity.

Tasting

This 2013 edition captivates  its precision, density and blend of ripe citrus aromas with pastry notes. The aroma transports you to a world of freshness, opening smoothly to reveal a natural expression of bright flavors and nuances supported by subtle acidity. On the palate, the wine pulsates quickly as its effervescence unfolds into a refreshing sensation. It tightens on the finish to leave a lingering flavor infused with ginger and licorice. Possessing an exceptional quality, the champagne Taittinger Comtes de Champagne 2013 expands its energy with dynamism and an impressive purity of aromas, beautifully revealing the salty and mineral austerity of the exceptional Côte des Blancs terroirs.

Pairing

Perfect for a special celebration, this champagne pairs perfectly with seafood, shellfish and fish. With an ideal serving temperature of 11 oC, this cuvee surprises from the first sips with its incredible freshness and crystalline structure.