2013 Comtes de Taittinger

Tasting notes:

In 1952, the most exclusive and premium cuvée, Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs, was born. Only made in exceptional vintage with 100% Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs Grand Crus, this is Taittinger’s hallmark. Only juice from the first press goes to this cuvée. 5 % of the blend is aged in oak barrels before the blend and, after the second fermentation, the wine aged for up to 10 years. This is a deep and vibrant Champagne with aromas of lemon confit, dried flowers, chamomile, spice, marzipan and crushed rocks. Very layered and structured on the palate and well-balanced with a bright acidity and a mousse of striking finesse and delicacy.

Producer description:

Dating back to 1734, the Forest-Fourneaux Champagne House, one of the oldest in the region, was acquired by Pierre Taittinger in 1934. The house is still family owned today with Pierre Emmanuel Taittinger, together with son Clovis and daughter Vitalie at its head. The estate covers 288 hectares, making it the third largest domaine in Champagne. Their premium cuvee, Comtes de Champagne, is dedicated to the flamboyant legend of Thibaud IV le Chansonnier and King of Navarre. He influenced Champagne’s politics, economy and arts but will be mainly remembered for returning from the crusades with an example of a new grape variety, never seen before in Europe, now known to be the ancestor of Chardonnay.