Highlights from our Champagne Tasting

Highlights from our Champagne Tasting

Dec 28, 2023Janine Bruderer

If you missed out on our most recent event, "Hot Dogs and Champagne" on Friday 16.Dezember 2023, we got you covered. Here is a curated selection of the evening's most beloved Champagnes: 

1 Ultradition Extra-Brut - Laherte Frères

The "Ultradition" is one of the cuvées produced by Laherte Frères, located in the village of Chavot in the Vallée de la Marne region of Champagne. Laherte Frères is known for its commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices, as well as its dedication to expressing the terroir of the diverse vineyards they own.

The nose unfolds with a bouquet of fresh fruits, particularly crisp apples and pears, layered with subtle floral notes. A hint of brioche and a touch of almond provide depth and complexity.On the palate, the Ultradition Champagne reveals a harmonious blend of flavors. Crisp green apple and citrus zest dance on the tongue, accompanied by a gentle minerality that adds structure. This Champagne boasts a refined and creamy mouthfeel.The texture is both silky and lively, enhancing the overall drinking experience and leaving a lingering, satisfying finish.

 

2 Grains De Celles - Pierre Gerbais

Located in the Côte des Bar region of Champagne, Pierre Gerbais cultivates vineyards in the village of Celles-sur-Ource.One of the notable features of Pierre Gerbais Champagnes is the significant reliance on Pinot Blanc, a less common grape variety in the Champagne region. Pinot Blanc adds a distinct character to the wines, often contributing to a rounder and more approachable style.

The bouquet is a captivating fusion of floral and cool, yeasty notes. Aromas of white flowers, fragrance of yellow fruits, such as apricots and peaches and a subtle minerality.Grains de Celles showcases a well-defined structure, marked by a backbone of crisp acidity that imparts vibrancy. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving behind traces of a subtle mineral salinity that lingers.Complementing the fruitiness is a layer of toasted brioche and a touch of almond, creating a harmonious symphony of taste.

 

3 L`Amateur - David Léclapart

The Champagne from David Léclapart, adorned in a pale gold robe with fine bubbles. The fruit profile, primarily pear, is remarkably slim and pure, underscored by a subtle warmth reminiscent of brushed slate – a note often found in German Rieslings.The tasting experience unfolds with finesse, initially opening brilliantly before entering a moment of shyness – a characteristic phase not uncommon in Leclapart's authentic wines. David Léclapart is recognized for his meticulous attention to detail, organic viticulture, and dedication to expressing the unique terroir of his vineyards. His Champagnes often receive praise for their purity, finesse, and distinctive character.

4 Extra Brut - Rémi-Leroy

The Leroy family has been cultivating vines in the Côte des Bar region of Champagne for several generations.Rémi Leroy is recognized for his dedication to biodynamic farming practices and minimal intervention winemaking. His Champagnes often reflect the terroir of the region and showcase the characteristics of the grape varieties used, primarily Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Extra Brut comes with a great acidity, coupled with a harmonious blend of fruit and mineral elements. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a crisp, refreshing Champagne with a touch of elegance.

5 Les 7 Solera - Laherte Frères 

Les 7 – Solera is a truly unique Champagne in many respects. On one hand, it brings together all grape varieties approved in the Champagne region to create a cuvée. On the other hand, this Champagne is produced using the Solera method. This means that each year, starting from 2005, 60% of new base wine is blended with the existing wine. While this technique is more commonly associated with Sherry production, it's also reminiscent of how some Chinese soup kitchens maintain broths for decades.

The result is an absolute rarity and a brief lesson in the diversity of Champagne. In the glass, you'll discover a precise, expressive wine with aromas of cream, flint, and citrus fruits. On the palate, the wine remains incredibly expressive and complex.This Champagne from Laherte Frères is characterized by its precision, always clear and radiant, with an impressive depth.

 

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