{"title":"Dec 27: Champagne Extrodinaré","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"claude-cazals-clos-cazals-blanc-de-blancs-vieilles-vignes-extra-brut-grand-cru-oger-champagne-france-2014","title":"Claude Cazals, 'Clos Cazals' Blanc de Blancs, Vieilles Vignes, Extra-Brut, Grand Cru Oger, Champagne, France, 2014","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e The Cazals family first came to Champagne in 1897 when a professional barrel maker from the Languedoc- Roussillon delivered some large barrels and decided to stay. Ernest Cazals put down roots in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger in the Côte des Blancs, married a local, and prospered. In the 1950s his son Olivier bought a house in the village of Oger, a mile to the north, for his son Claude. This house happened to be the former home of Léon Bourgeois, “the spiritual father” of the League of Nations and Nobel Peace Prize winner. The property had a nine acre walled garden attached that led to the back of the Church of Oger. Father and son saw great potential in this site, and began planting Chardonnay vines by their family home. From the 1950s until 1997, the grapes from this site were blended into the other cuvees of Claude Cazals. Delphine Cazals had noticed that the grapes grown in the Clos ripened a full gram of sugar riper than the surrounding plots, a strong consideration in cool Champagne. In the 1990s Delphine pushed her father to make a singular cuvee from this site showcasing its unique terroir, and began making this cuvee in 1997.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDelphine Cazals\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChardonnay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cu style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003eOrigin\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eIt expresses itself clearly on notes of white flowers, orange blossom, white fruit with hints of citrus; making it greedy, subtle and silky with a delicate and continuous effervescence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e93 Points - CT\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"La Grenouille","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47890989744433,"sku":null,"price":220.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Claude_Cazals_Clos_Cazals_Blanc_de_Blancs_Vieilles_Vignes_Extra-Brut_Grand_Cru_Oger_Champagne_France_2014.jpg?v=1741356304"},{"product_id":"pol-roger-cuvee-sir-winston-churchill-brut-champagne-france-2013","title":"Pol Roger, Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill Brut, Champagne, France, 2013","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePol Roger is one of the few remaining family-owned grande marque Champagne houses. Their grande marque status was guaranteed at the turn of the century when about 20 producers banded together to establish exacting quality controls for Champagne.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe annual production at Pol Roger - less than 120,000 cases - is found in the best restaurants of France, England, and the USA, and is exported to over 30 countries. Pol Roger also was the Champagne of choice of British dignitary Sir Winston Churchill, who once said of Champagne, \"...In victory I deserve it, and in defeat I need it!\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe wine has an inviting, bright golden hue, and a fine, regular stream of bubbles. At first the refined nose exudes subtle hints of brioche and sweet spice combining with citrus flavors and floral fragrances. As the wine warms in the glass, it becomes more powerful and the nose develops complex nuances of toasted nuts, acacia blossom and honeycomb. The palate is round and creamy supported by notes of fresh fruit. The structure is opulent, underpinned by fabulous balance. The finish is long and powerful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe weight, balance and mineral freshness means that this champagne could be served with Parmigano Reggiano matured for 18 months, a stuffed capon façon demi-deuil or sweetbreads cooked with morels\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlthough ready to drink, this very fine Champagne has plenty of aging to go. With its rich Pinot Noir and ripe fruits, it is generous while also fully textured. Complex and balanced, mature fruit and toast working together, this is a great wine.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eThe 2013 Champagne Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill Brut, composed of 95% Pinot Noir, is the 20th release of this cuvée, and this version is robust, classic, and noble in its expression. The color is a medium straw, and the aromas are complex and compelling, with smoke, graham biscuit, currant, and orange marmalade. It has immediate appeal and charm. The palate is structured, yet refreshing, and savory with grip and an energetic citrus that doesn’t seem to taper.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eComplex and subtle aromas of dried ginger, pie crust, cooked apple and cooked peach follow through to a full body with ginseng, toasted bread and dried apple. Very fine and multidimensional. Great wine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eThe 2013 Brut Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is fabulous. Rich and remarkably pure, the 2013 is super- expressive right out of the gate. Bright saline notes cut through a core of lemon confit, dried flowers, apricot, tangerine peel, mint and sage. As compelling as the 2013 is, it really needs more time to open a bit. There is a feeling of transparency here that is so alluring. The 2013 is a terrific example of power with no excess weight in Champagne. I loved it. Disgorged: July 2021. Dosage is 7 grams per liter.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2013 Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill continues to show beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of crisp yellow orchard fruit, mandarin oil, freshly baked bread and pastry cream. Medium to full-bodied, pillowy and precise, it's deep and vinous, with a racy spine of an acidity and a tensile but relatively charming profile that means it's already approachable. In style, the 2013 is in contrast with the broader, fleshier 2012, but the two vintages are very close in ultimate quality.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eThe 2013 Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill has an elegant yet refined bouquet of lemon, orchard fruit and spring flowers, intertwined with pure notes of brioche and pastry. The palate is crystalline, with racy acids and an elegant, penetrating finish. There is a lively touch of mint. This is a particularly delicate and tense iteration of the cuvée. Very charming.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn expressive Champagne, with ripe and juicy pineapple, cassis and apricot fruit flavors married to notes of brioche, saline, lemon curd and honeysuckle. Backed by a spine of fresh acidity, this is well-cut and harmonious, with the fine and creamy mousse carrying the flavor range on the lasting finish. Drink now through 2035. 600 cases imported.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\n\u003cb\u003eGift Box shipping is additional - \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWine in gift box can be delivered - wrapped or unwrapped in LA area. For UPS or GLS deliveries - wine will be removed from gift box and box will be folded up and included in delivery only if it does not compromise the shipping package. Should you wish to insure delivery of the gift box - contact us - and we can explore alternatives which may require additional packaging efforts, materials and costs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/h6\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49487433040177,"sku":null,"price":400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/PolRoger_CuveeSirWinstonChurchillBrut_Champagne_France_2013.jpg?v=1718392383"},{"product_id":"dom-perignon-basquiat-brut-champagne-france-2015","title":"Dom Pérignon, 'Jean-Michel Basquiat' Special Edition, Brut, Champagne, France, 2015","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDom Pierre Pérignon, a French Benedictine monk, set out his vision to \"create the best wine in the world\" when he became Cellar Master at the sacred Abbey of Hautvillers in 1668. Dom Pérignon dedicated over 40 years to this mission, employing a visionary spirit and daring approach to the wine making process. Over that time, he became known as the ‘father of champagne’ for laying down the fundamental rules for the traditional Champagne production method (La Methode Champenoise or Traditionelle). A favored wine of the Sun King Louis XIV, Dom Pérignon himself compared his wine to \"drinking stars\".  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-align-justify\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eDom Pérignon: an absolute commitment to Vintage\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-align-justify\"\u003eDom Pérignon’s commitment to vintage is absolute. Each Dom Pérignon is a true act of creation, made from only the best grapes. The champagne’s intensity is based in precision, so inviting, so mysterious. Each Vintage has three Plénitudes, and embodies the total faith in the creation that is constantly renewed by Chef de Cave Vincent Chaperon. Coupled with a bold sense of playfulness, Dom Pérignon inspires the greatest creators in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-align-justify\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eA quest for harmony as a source of emotion\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-align-justify\"\u003eMade only from the best grapes grown in one single year, each Dom Pe´rignon’s Vintage represents a harmonic balance between the nature of the year and the signature of Dom Pérignon. After no fewer than 8 years of elaboration, each vintage emerges complete, seamless and tactile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-align-justify\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eHow Dom Pérignon is Made\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-align-justify\"\u003eDom Pérignon Champagne is made through an assemblage of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, created by using only the best grapes harvested from the 17 Grands Crus in Champagne and the Premier Cru of Hautvillers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"ql-align-justify\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eVincent Chaperon\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne Blend \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDom Pérignon’s creative ambition is a perpetual quest for harmony as a source of emotion. Every creative process faces constraints. For Dom Pérignon, this means always a vintage wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn unyielding commitment to bear witness to the harvest of a single year, whatever the challenges, even going as far as not declaring a vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExplore Dom Pérignon Vintage 2015, featuring refined notes of roasted cocoa, lime blossom, jasmine, and peony, subtly accented with aniseed and cardamom. This champagne harmonizes the crispness of orange and green papaya with a soft, full-bodied palate rich in peach, nectarine, and citrus flavors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen it comes to wine pairing, Dom Pérignon Vintage 2015 expresses its distinctive character particularly well with choice seafood such as caviar, king crab and langoustine. The wine’s aromatic profile also pairs perfectly with meats with tangy notes, such as pork, lamb or duck. Exotic touches of kiwi and guava, along with green curry spices, accentuate the stimulating complexity of this vintage, offering a rich and soothing wine tasting experience.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eA super-complex Champagne with chewy tension. Aromas of coffee beans, lemon peel, burnt sugar, chalky minerality, barley candy and tarte tatin. Fine pinprick bubbles with flavors of lemon leaves, aspirin and Mirabelle plums, plus a touch of grapefruit bitterness keeping the tension. Zesty yet integrated chewy acidity and a medium body with a toasted finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Vinous\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe 2015 Dom Pérignon is terrific. Bright and poised, the 2015 shows terrific energy. Citrus peel, white flowers, mint, white pepper and slate all race across the palate. There’s gorgeous tension and backbone here, with bright saline notes that extend the mid-palate and finish. This is a fine showing in a vintage that has proven to be tricky. I am intrigued to see how the 2015 develops in the coming years. Drink 2025-2045\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cb\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eDisgorged in January 2023, the 2015 Dom Pérignon shows a singular, ethereal profile with aromas of white pepper, iodine, ripe orchard fruits, toast, smoke, herbs and spices. Medium to full-bodied, layered, and structured, it’s enveloping and round with a delicate phenolic mid-palate that underlines chalky dry extracts, concluding with a sapid, penetrating finish with gastronomic bitterness. This iteration of Dom Pérignon, though replete with the customary charm and vinous generosity that typify the label, distinguishes itself by its structural delicate austerity and a notably phenolic profile, giving rise to a remarkably linear and well-defined style that diverges markedly from the more familiar expressions of Dom Pérignon. This is a blend of 51% Pinot Noir and 49% Chardonnay with a dosage of 4.5 grams per liter; it will age wonderfully and can be enjoyed now or over the next 20 years. Drink 2024-2054\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThere's a well-spiced, zesty edge to the flavors of glazed apple, mandarin orange peel, pink grapefruit pith and crème de cassis as they ride the finely detailed mousse of this fresh, focused Champagne. This vivid display is enriched by notes of canelé pastry, chopped almond, pastry cream, smoke and vanilla, all coming to the forefront through the midpalate and chiming on the lasting finish. Drink now through 2035.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50459835760945,"sku":null,"price":375.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Dom_Perignon__Jean-Michel_Basquiat__Special_Edition_Brut_Champagne_France_2015.jpg?v=1734399960"},{"product_id":"pierre-peters-les-chetillons-cuvee-speciale-blanc-de-blancs-brut-grand-cru-champagne-france-2014","title":"Pierre Péters, 'Les Chetillons' Cuvée Speciale, Blanc de Blancs Brut Grand Cru, Champagne, France, 2014","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Pierre Péters estate, situated in the heart of the \"Côte des Blancs\" in the village of Le Mesnil sur Oger, has been a family house for six generations and has produced Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Champagnes since 1919. We do everything possible to express the chalky soil of our great terroirs as passionate craftsmen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChampagne grower-producer, our wines come exclusively from our own vineyards. Our house currently operates just over 19 hectares of Chardonnay, mainly located in the communes of Le Mesnil sur Oger, Oger, Avize and Cramant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur family has developed from generation to generation, its own selection of grapes (mass selection). We have been able to maintain and age vineyards which are now 30-years old on average. Each year in respect of the environment, we adapt our cultivation methods to obtain healthy grapes so that our Champagne expresses more precisely the richness, subtlety and the elegance of the great \"terroirs\" of the Côte des Blancs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRodolphe Péters\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100% Chardonnay\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e‘Les Chétillons’ is a powerful, 24-month sur lie Blanc de Blancs and is loaded with flavors of citrus rind, brioche, and white flowers. Pair with all things fried for an out of this world experience.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eThe 2014 Cuvée Spéciale Les Chétillons is fabulous. The 2014 is not as obvious as years like 2012 or 2013, but it presents a youthfully austere, classic personality that is absolutely beguiling. Readers will have to be patient here. There is certainly a lot to look forward to. The 2014 Les Chétillons is a Blanc de Blancs that sizzles with Mesnil tension and energy. Dosage is 3.5-4.5 grams per liter. Disgorged: May, 2021.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eUnwinds in the glass with aromas of freshly baked bread, crisp orchard fruit, clear honey, warm biscuits and dried white flowers. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and muscular, it's a deep, compact wine structured around racy acids and chalky extract. It's a strong effort, but it will demand a bit of patience to reveal all its potential. Péters was careful not to pick too soon, classifying 2015 along with 2011 and 2007 as years defined by an early harvest where it was nonetheless critical to avoid picking too early.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grand Cru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50560433062193,"sku":null,"price":485.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/PierrePeters_LesChetillons_CuveeSpeciale_BlancdeBlancs_Brut_GrandCru_Champagne_France_2014.jpg?v=1736529928"},{"product_id":"taittinger-comtes-de-champagne-blanc-de-blancs-champagne-france-2013","title":"Taittinger, Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs, Champagne, France, 2013","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTaittinger is one of just five Champagne houses to cellar its wines in the famous ‘Crayeres’ of Reims – chalk caves originally dug by the Romans. The house owns four kilometres of Crayeres, nowadays used to age their prestige cuvees.\u003cbr\u003eTaittinger’s history can be traced back to 1734, when it was originally known as Forest-Fourneaux, founded by Jacques Fourneaux who worked closely with local Benedictine monks to learn how to produce wine. As such, the house is the third oldest Champagne producer in history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe estate was bought by the Taittingers – a family of wine merchants – in 1932, and thanks to the great depression and subsequent low land prices, the family also picked up huge swathes of vineyard. From 1945-1960, Francois Taittinger established the cellars in the Abbey of Saint-Nicaise, and after his death in 1960 his brother Claude took over, pushing the estate into a Champagne house of world renown. Such was the status of the label that the Taittinger family soon expanded its business into other luxury goods. However, this eventually led to financial difficulties, and in 2005 the Taittinger brand – including the Champagne house – was sold to the American owned Starwood Hotel Group. The sale was badly received by the Champagne industry, with many fearing the new owners – unfamiliar with the culture of Champagne – would put profit ahead of quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust one year later, Claude’s nephew, Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger, who had always been opposed to the sale, negotiated a €660m deal with the Starwood Group, and the Taittinger family resumed ownership of the company. Taittinger is therefore one of the few remaining independently owned Champagne Houses.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eVitalie Taittinger\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChardonnay\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCrystal clear, with a beautiful golden shimmer through colours of straw yellow and reflections of gold; the bead is fine, delicate and lively. The vintage captivates a blend of ripe citrus fruit flavors with pastry notes. The nose is fresh, smooth, and reveals a natural expression of radiant flavors. On the palate, the wine's effervescence unfurls into an invigorating sensation. It tightens up on the finish to leave a lingering taste imbued with ginger and liquorice. Possessing a natural delicacy, this Comtes de Champagne 2013 extends its energy with dynamism and a striking purity of aromas\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect for a special celebration, this champagne is the ideal match for a seafood, shellfish or fish entrée.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_rating\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_review\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFantastic complexity here with aromas of toast, biscuit, lemon, almond, chalk and some fennel. It's long, sleek and mineral, with tight, very fine bubbles and so much tension and precision. Very long and chalky finish. Disgorged end of 2023. Drink or hold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_rating\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e98 Points  - \u003c\/span\u003eVinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_review\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003e\n\u003csection data-view=\"Product.Information\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-details-information-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-details-information-content-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv role=\"tabpanel\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-action=\"tab-content\" data-type=\"information-content\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-id=\"product-details-information-0\" id=\"product-details-information-tab-0\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-panel active\" role=\"tabpanel\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\" id=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container-0\"\u003eThe 2013 Comtes de Champagne is a towering Champagne, as it was last year. Rich, sumptuous and explosive, the 2013 soars out of the glass with a captivating mix of tropical fruit, apricot, passion fruit, baked apple tart, mint and yellow flowers. It is one of the most explosive, extroverted Comtes I have ever tasted. Impressive. 2025-2053 (AG)\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_rating\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e98 Points  - \u003c\/span\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_review\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003e\n\u003csection data-view=\"Product.Information\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-details-information-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-details-information-content-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv role=\"tabpanel\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-action=\"tab-content\" data-type=\"information-content\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-id=\"product-details-information-0\" id=\"product-details-information-tab-0\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-panel active\" role=\"tabpanel\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\" id=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container-0\"\u003eThis beautiful Chardonnay from five top Grand Cru vineyards is textured with fruit that is still impressively perfumed. Its concentration has allowed it to remain perennially young. Although there are hints of toastiness, the Champagne has many more years of potential. *Cellar Selection* (RV)\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_rating\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e96 Points  - \u003c\/span\u003eDecanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_review\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003e\n\u003csection data-view=\"Product.Information\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-details-information-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-details-information-content-container\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv role=\"tabpanel\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-action=\"tab-content\" data-type=\"information-content\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-id=\"product-details-information-0\" id=\"product-details-information-tab-0\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-panel active\" role=\"tabpanel\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\" id=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container-0\"\u003eTasted six months on from release, the restrained quality of this vintage is shining a little brighter with its lime leaf, floral honey and green mango scents, touches of oyster shell and an emerging floral honey depth, with few signs of outgoing creaminess or nuttiness just yet. Citric juiciness drives the narrow, long palate, perfectly built for ageing; this continues to be a vintage to watch. A blend of all the grand cru villages of the Côte des Blancs. (TH)\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-type=\"information-content-text\" class=\"product-details-information-tab-content-container\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Regal Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51684668997937,"sku":null,"price":255.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Taittinger_Comtes_de_Champagne_Blanc_de_Blancs_Champagne_France_2013_23959376-0c6d-454d-8d58-7dff5d7f6bd1.jpg?v=1757423105"},{"product_id":"krug-grand-cuvee-champagne-france-nv-750ml-edition-172","title":"Krug, Grand Cuvée, Champagne, France, NV (750ml) (Edition 172)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSince 1843, six generations of the Krug Family have been creating the finest and rarest Champagnes. Behind every precious drop of Krug stands the dream of a visionary. One man who, long before others, understood that the essence of Champagne is pleasure. So, over 170 years ago, Joseph Krug broke with convention to follow his vision: to create the most generous expression of Champagne every year, regardless of climatic unpredictability. Thanks to an uncompromising craftsmanship, a unique individual plot by plot approach from harvesting to blending, an unparalleled library of 150 reserve wines, and an exceptional cellar aging, Krug is the benchmark when it comes to the best champagnes in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKrug Grande Cuvée is the flagship of the House and the archetype of Krug’s philosophy of craftsmanship and savoir-faire: a blend of more than 120 wines from ten or more different years. Its exceptional finesse is the result of a stay of at least another six years in the cellars. Over twenty years are needed to craft each bottle of Krug Grande Cuvee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery year since the foundation of the House in 1843, one creation, one blend, one bottling and thus one new Edition of Krug Grande Cuvée has come to life. The number of the Edition is now featured on the front label, and this year we celebrate the 164th Edition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e44% Pinot Noir, 36% Chardonnay and 20% Meunier\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA light golden colour and fine, vivacious bubbles, holding a promise of pleasure. Aromas of flowers in bloom, ripe, dried and citrus fruits, as well as marzipan and gingerbread. Flavours of hazelnut, nougat, barley sugar, jellied and citrus fruits, almonds, brioche and honey.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKrug Grande Cuvée lends itself to a wealth of culinary combinations, from the simplest to the most sophisticated, from an aged parmesan to turbot à la truffe. This Champagne can be enjoyed as an aperitif with Jabugo ham and mature comté or served to accompany oysters, grilled shrimps, Indian or Moroccan food, as well as desserts such as carrot cake, tarte Tatin and cheesecake.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_rating\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e98 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_review\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003eThis is most recent bottling of this iconic Champagne. There is a touch of toast as well as enticing apple and citrus aromas. On the palate, this wine is rich, intense, poised between maturity and ripe white fruits. It is a beautifully balanced wine, ready to drink.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_rating\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_rating\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e97 Points - \u003c\/span\u003eJames Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_review\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003eBeautiful notes of dried citrus fruit, lemon curd and dried apples with hints of spices, dried flowers and subtle brioche. I like the polished and caressing texture and steady, refreshing acidity. It’s fresh and even austere, with notes of ground spices. So vertical and firm. Structured and long. Drink or hold.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 172ème édition, based around the 2016 vintage, is a delicate, floral and saline Grande Cuvée at this early stage in its life. The palate it taut, tightly wound, gradually unfurling into toasted fruit bread, rye bread and roasted nuts, wrapped around an intricate and taut lemon core. It's exceptionally long, spicy, rounded and spherical in shape. Notes of sweet unsalted butter round out the finish, which has such length, elegance and balance. 58% of the wine is from the 2016 vintage, which saw a lot of rain in the spring and close to flowering, with 42% from reserve wines. The blend is made up of 146 separately vinified wines from 11 different years, and the oldest wine in the blend is from the 1998 vintage. (NE)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e95 Points - \u003c\/span\u003eJeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe NV Champagne Grande Cuvée 172 was created around the 2016 harvest year, and they enriched it with 146 wines dating from 2016 back to 1998. It pours a medium straw\/yellow hue and is very pretty on the nose, with floral aromas leading out of the gate, followed by notes of candied green apples, fresh linen, lime sorbet, redcurrants, delicate spice, and fresh almond. It’s rounded and medium-bodied on the palate, with a refined, delicately chalky texture, even, mouthwatering saline, fresh lift, and a long, fresh finish. As it opens, it starts to show its deeper profile in the blend, with notes of toast and crushed stones. It’s a lovely addition to the range that will have a wide drinking window and improve with time over the next 20 years. Give it 3-4 years in the cellar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_review\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe NV Grande Cuvée 172ème Édition is a gracious, sublime Champagne. Light citrus notes, white flowers, spice, marzipan and chamomile inflections all run through this delicate, nuanced Grande Cuvée. The 172eme is a Champagne of understatement and class that is very much a reflection of the base year. Brisk acids pull it all together. The Grande Cuvée is often quite accessible on release, but this is an Edition I would cellar for at least another year or two. It’s a fine effort from Krug. The 172ème Édition is a blend of 44% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay and 20% Meunier based on 2016 with reserve wines back to 1998. Disgorged: Winter 2022-2023. (AG)\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_rating\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"wineRatings_rating\"\u003e95 Points - \u003c\/span\u003eWine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_review\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipSecContent_copy\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new Krug release, the NV Grande Cuvée 172ème Édition, based on the 2016 vintage and comprising 11 vintages in total (the oldest is 1998), is outstanding. It reveals a complex, slightly spicy bouquet of white fruits, beeswax, marzipan, hazelnuts, dried herbs, ripe orchard fruits and white flowers. Medium to full-bodied, rich and concentrated on the palate, it has a subtly spicy entry, an enrobing and layered texture and a fleshy core of fruit framed around a perfectly balanced, fresh and mineral finish. Crafted primarily from Pinot Noir (44%) and complemented with 30% Chardonnay and the rest Pinot Meunier, it was disgorged in the first quarter of 2023 with a dosage of 4.5 grams per liter. Keep it for 5-10 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51708116336945,"sku":null,"price":340.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Krug_Grand_Cuvee_Champagne_France_NV_750ml_Edition_172.jpg?v=1754482806"},{"product_id":"louis-roederer-cristal-brut-champagne-france-2016","title":"Louis Roederer, Cristal, Brut, Champagne, France, 2016","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eUncompromising Quality:  \u003cspan\u003eChampagne Louis Roederer was founded in 1776 in Reims, France and is one of the rare family owned companies, which is still managed by the Roederer family. In 1833, Louis Roederer inherited the company from his uncle and renamed the company under his namesake. Under his leadership, the company rapidly grew while remaining true to their philosophy of uncompromising quality. Today, the company is under the helm of Jean-Claude Rouzaud and his son Frédéric who continue to place quality before quantity. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirst-Rate Vineyards\u003cbr\u003eChampagne Louis Roederer is one of the only French champagne producers to own nearly 75 percent of the grapes in the most desirable vineyards in the Champagne. The property is located on 450 acres in the finest villages of Montagne de Reims, Côtes des Blancs, and Valleé de la Marne. Each region is selected to produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with the elegance needed for perfectly balanced champagne. The Louis Roederer vineyards rate an average 98 percent based on France’s statutory 100-point classification scale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reserve wine is then tasted and graded by a team of Roederer specialists. They choose as many as 40 different wines from several lots for the blend. For the final touch, the wine is then added in order to enhance the cuvee and guarantee consistency while retaining the champagne's characteristics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJean-Baptiste Lécaillon\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e58% Pinot Noir, 42% Chardonnay\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCristal is a remarkably balanced and refined champagne whose length is inimitable. It has a silky texture and fruity aromas, complemented by a powerful mineral quality with white fruit and citrus notes. Cristal is a wine that keeps well: it can be conserved for over twenty years without losing its freshness and character.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIntense, bright and luminous golden hue. Dynamic effervescence with a continuous stream of fine bubbles. Intense, fragrant bouquet of great purity. Concentrated and candied citrus fruit mingle delicately with notes of grain and lightly roasted almonds. The lovely sensation of big ripe fruit is balanced and lifted by energetic fresh tangy overtones. Fruity palate with a silky texture, complemented by soft bubbles that are perfectly integrated and deliciously elegant. The purity and perfection of the ripe yellow fruit melt into the intense chalky freshness typical of Cristal that is powdery and saline. Dense, juicy, concentrated, and long on the mid-palate, thanks to the spicy and sappy structure resulting from partial ageing in large oak vats (foudres). The finish builds to a crescendo, revealing a rich grainy and a velvety texture that is wrapped in a long, saline, and superbly elegant finish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCristal 2016 is quite simply phenomenal! Coming from a cool, late vintage, it reveals a rare, magical balance between intensity of the pure aromas, energetic vibration, juicy palate and saline, chalky finish. The perfect Cristal balance: 50% soil\/ 50% sun. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine Independent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2016 Cristal is a blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay with 7 grams per liter of dosage. No malo-lactic was performed here, and 31% of the base wines were aged in French oak. The nose begins with bright red berry notes of fresh raspberries and strawberries before opening out to a complex undercurrent of saffron, white chocolate, talc, baker’s yeast, and emerging wafts of citron blossom and pear tart. The palate is very dry and spicy, not needing even a touch more sweetness thanks to the abundance of ripe berry and citrus flavors, delivering beautifully knit acidity and typically tiny, persistent bubbles. It finishes with notes of effervescent chalkiness and saffron flowers, leaving you reaching for another sip. (LPB) 98+ \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e98 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThis iconic Champagne, first made in the 19th century for the Tsar of Russia, shows its typical stunning balance and poise between richness and concentration. It has a pure white fruit and honeysuckle aroma and tight, tangy fresh fruit flavors. Just ready to drink, the wine will age well, for at least 20 years. Organic. *Cellar Selection* (RV)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCristal 2016 represents a return to purity and classicism for this cuvée, even seen through the lens of 2016's ripe, generous nature. It is discreet in youth, cloaking its ripeness in long, chalky, stony energy. Gentle mandarin, pale apricot and raspberry fruit sit under slowly maturing notions of floral honey and tight, smoky charm. An airy, flowing delicacy and persistence lifts this above some other expressions of this year. It's a hugely promising Cristal, likely to stand as tall as the sought-after 2012 and 2013 releases. (TH) \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2016 Cristal is a taut, incisive rendition of this benchmark bottling, unwinding in the glass with youthfully reserved aromas of citrus oil, white flowers, wet stones and subtle hints of sweet, buttery pastry. Medium to full-bodied, chiseled and racy, it's almost as electric as the brilliant 2013, with serious concentration, a pure core of fruit, chalky structuring dry extract and a long, intensely mineral finish. Given its tightly wound profile, my advice is to forget it in the cellar for a few years and work on the more open, outgoing 2014 in the meantime. (WK) \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2016 Cristal is bright, aromatic and nicely lifted. Citrus peel white flowers, mint and a touch of chamomile all grace this understated, wonderfully refined edition of Cristal. Light on its feet and super-refined, the 2016 is exquisite in its understated beauty. I can’t wait to see how the 2016 ages and won’t be surprised it gains a bit of weight in bottle, as Cristal so often does. The blend is 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay, so a touch more Chardonnay than the norm. Of the 45 parcels that make up the Cristal domaine, just 32 were used for the blend. Verzy and Verzenay dominate the Pinots, then Aÿ. Avize takes the lead in the Chardonnays, followed by Mesnil and Cramant. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. (AG) \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThis leads with pronounced minerality on the nose, but then a bright burst of tangerine, blood orange and Meyer lemon flavors on the palate hold sway, joined by rich hints of crème de cassis, toast point, pastry cream and crystallized honey. Showing beautiful integration and a refined, lacy mousse, this is compact and statuesque, with a sense of restraint and the hint of more to come, while at the same time offering lovely expression in the glass today. Fresh and focused on the persistent finish. *Collectible* (AN)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003eExcluded from \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eadditional discounting. \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51848834023729,"sku":null,"price":388.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Louis_Roederer_Cristal_Brut_Champagne_France_2016.jpg?v=1758223534"},{"product_id":"bollinger-pn-vz19-brut-champagne-france-nv","title":"Bollinger, 'PN VZ19', PN Brut 2019, Champagne, France, NV (#45 in TOP 100 of 2024 by RP)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eVERY EXCLUSIVE\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn 1829, Champagne Bollinger introduced an instantly recognizable, dry, toasty style that connoisseurs around the globe have coveted ever since. Six generations of the Bollinger family have maintained that trademark style, and Bollinger is one of the rare Grande Marque houses to be owned, controlled and managed by the same family since it was founded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 399 acres of vineyards situated in the best Grands Crus and Premiers Crus villages, Bollinger relies on its own estate for nearly two-thirds of its grape requirements, including the Pinot Noir that gives its Champagne its distinctive roundness and elegance. Bollinger is one of a select few houses that can control the quality of its grape supply so carefully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBollinger is renowned for its stringent quality standards. It adheres to traditional methods, including individual vinification of each marc and cru, barrel fermentation (it is the last Champagne house to employ a full-time cooper) and extra-aging on the lees prior to disgorgement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMembers of the British Royal Court were among the first to embrace Bollinger’s unmistakable quality, and Queen Victoria made Bollinger the exclusive purveyor to the Court by Royal Warrant in 1884. Besides royalty, loyal devotees have included heads of state, celebrities and even famous fictional characters: Agent 007, James Bond, demands the exclusive Champagne Bollinger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDenis Bunner\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100% Pinot Noir\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cu style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003eOrigin\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes \u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cbr\u003eA golden color.  A very expressive nose on the fruit, from the fruit to the red fruit to the fruit exotic: a delicate and aerial harmony where each aroma is expressed in perfect harmony. We find in the mouth the fruity character of the nose, mixing notes of white fruits and citrus: the granny apple tart and the fleshy of the vine peach agree with The energy of the blood orange. A soft and silky texture for a wine of a large elegance. The saline final adds a final touch to the complexity of this new edition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePN VZ19 is a wine to share between enthusiasts, looking for the different expressions of Pinot Noir in Champagne. To highlight its unique style and aromas, we advise you to serve PN VZ19 between 10 and 11 ° C. You can taste this wine now, or choose to let it evolve in the cellar. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e95 Points - Decanter\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eBollinger continues its quest to highlight its Pinot Noir expertise with arguably the most exciting and focused wine yet in the PN series, focusing on the grand cru village of Verzenay from 2019 (although backed up with reserves from all around the Montagne de Reims and Grande Vallée, 25% of which comes directly from magnums). It weaves a beautiful line between the clear, long and ultra-fine Pinot of Verzenay, mineral and understated, the quiet power of the 2019 vintage, and the stunning complexity of reserves. Roast apricot, scorched orange citrus and soft raspberry fruits are backed up beautifully by toasty nougat, cocoa and dried pear ageing characters. It's a striking wine of persistent, tightly packed quality, holding terrific mid-term potential.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e94 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe latest rendition of Bollinger's blended blanc de noirs bottling is the NV Brut Blanc de Noirs PN VZ19; it is based on the 2019 vintage, which represents 52% of the blend, and the village of Verzenay, which accounts for the origin of 40% of this bottling's components. 2019 is complemented by fully 48% reserve wines, and above all, fully a quarter derives from 2009; and it has the tension of Verzenay by Aÿ, Avenay-Val-d'Or, Tauxières and Mutigny. If all that sounds complicated, the wine's appeal is easier to see, as it offers up a demonstrative bouquet of yellow stone fruit, mandarin and praline, followed by a medium to full-bodied, pure and pillowy palate that's charming, even giving, but also attractively racy, concluding with a saline finish. It was disgorged with six grams per liter dosage. This doesn't tower above its 2018-base counterpart (perhaps unsurprisingly, as the percentage of reserve wines in this bottling is so high), but it does seem to be marginally the strongest iteration of this cuvée to date.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e94 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere's real drive and focus to this harmonious Champagne, with racy acidity enmeshed in the finely detailed, satinlike mousse and enlivening a lovely range of ripe cherry and cassis fruit and Marcona almond flavors, plus a touch of Gran Marnier liqueur. Delicate notes of spices, white blossoms and graphite linger on the finish. Pinot Noir. Disgorged January 2024. Drink now through 2035.\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e94 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e#45 of Top 100, 2024. The NV (2019) PN VZ is another terrific wine in this new range of Champagnes from Bollinger that is now in its fifth release. Exotic floral and spice notes play off a core of Pinot fruit in this captivating, mid-weight offering. Time in the glass accents the wine's inner sweetness and perfume. Pear, mint, jasmine and white pepper linger. In this release, the (2019) PN VZ is like a mini-Vieilles Vignes Françaises. It's an incredibly racy, sexy Blanc de Noirs. This release is based on 2019, with 50% reserve wines back to 2009. About half of the reserve wines were aged in magnum. Dosage is 6 grams per liter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Breakthru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52207886303537,"sku":null,"price":195.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Bollinger_PN_VZ19_Brut_Champagne_France_NV.jpg?v=1765831652"},{"product_id":"egly-ouriet-les-crayeres-blanc-de-noirs-grand-cru-extra-brut-vielles-vignes-champagne-france-nv","title":"Egly-Ouriet, 'Les Crayeres,' Blanc de Noirs, Grand Cru, Extra Brut, Vielles Vignes, Champagne, France, NV","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFrancis Egly is the fourth generation of the Egly family to make wines from their exceptionally located, old vine vineyards in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay (home to some of the greatest Pinot Noir that can be found in all of  Champagne), where he is considered the finest grower. Francis took over from his father Michel in 1980, with the intent and commitment to take these already revered Pinot Noir dominant Champagnes to the absolute apex of quality. He began using organic methods in the vineyards, with regular ploughing, and reduced yields. Once the grapes enter his cellar, Francis makes sure to only allow for the gentlest possible extraction, of which he only keeps the purest first pressing (known as the cuvée). Francis believes deeply that complexity and structure comes not only from perfect fruit, but also from extended lees aging. This belief is felt throughout his lineup, with most of his wines undergoing a minimum of 48 months on the lees with some cuvees being aged for 100+ months! All of this meticulous work in both vineyard and cellar has led to his standing by both his peers, critics and Champagne lovers across the world as one of the greatest growers in all of France.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eOrganic.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"chakra-heading css-5yx7ay\" data-sentry-element=\"Heading\" data-sentry-source-file=\"index.tsx\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rekolt.io\/egly-ouriet\/5-fascinating-facts-about-egly-ouriet?srsltid=AfmBOooZRdyXBki141_4Y8oyIyyGUivvlfs3Y16Bsbv8YnTSGPlBTXDR\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e5 Fascinating Facts About Egly-Ouriet\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrancis Egly\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Pinot Noir\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAmbonnay, Champagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYellow gold. Aromas of toast, yellow fruits, red berries, baking spices. Full-bodied, effusive and powerful; flavors of ginger, cardamom, red fruits, nuts. Pair with charcuterie or smoked meats\/fish; well-aged, ripe cheeses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e99 Points - Decanter\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSome in Champagne can achieve grandeur of dizzying proportions, and the most talented can summon delicacy of lightfooted grace, but no village marries the two as effortlessly as Ambonnay, and no practitioner as masterfully as Francis Egly. Vieilles Vignes is his masterpiece, succeeding in capturing the golden sunlight grandeur and chalk mineral airiness of his tiny amphitheatre shaped lieu-dit of vines planted in 1946. The essence of Pinot Noir. (TS)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e99 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAged 72 months on lees, fermented in barrel with full malo, the NV Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Brut Les Crayères Vieilles Vignes is just a heavenly bottle, offering a kaleidoscope-like nose of buttered citrus, orange blossom, flowers, green almonds, and salty minerality. These flow to a full-bodied, rich, deep, and incredibly layered palate Champagne that flirts with perfection. It’s stunning today yet it should easily evolve for another 20 years.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e97 Points - The Wine Palate\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe only single vineyard cuvée produced by Egly Ouriet, the Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs NV comes from an old-vine plot in Les Crayeres with very deep chalky soils. 50% of this barrel fermented cuvée is from the 2016 vintage with the other 50% from 2015. Light rose gold in color, it explodes from the glass with wonderfully complex and expressive red berry, black cherry, wilted rose, yuzu confit, toasted brioche and honey aromas. Medium-bodied with abundant ripe citrus and red currant concentration, the super fine mousse is infused with racy, filigreed acidity that adds finesse to the exceptionally long and chalky finish with hints of lemon peel. Disgorged July 2023 and finished with two grams per liter dosage.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e97 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDisgorged in October 2016 after 75 months on the lees, this release of Egly's NV Brut Blanc de Noirs Grand Cru Les Crayères (2008-2009 base) is a blend of the two vintages, and it's showing strikingly well, soaring from the glass with a complex bouquet of golden orchard fruit, Anjou pear, honeycomb, pralines and freshly baked bread. Full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, its enveloping core of fruit is underpinned by crisp acids and complemented by a beautifully refined pinpoint mousse, concluding with a precise, elegantly chalky finish. This is still just an adolescent, but it's very hard to resist right now. (WK)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Vinous\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe NV Brut Blanc de Noirs Les Crayeres Grand Cru explodes from the glass with a range of Pinot aromas and flavors that is just breathtaking. Bright acids and beams of saline intensity offer striking contrast. Even though it has just been Disgorged:, the Crayeres is just stunning. For readers who want to know what Pinot from Ambonnay tastes like, well, this is it. Hints of Mirabelle plum, red plum and dried flowers linger on the substantial finish. Disgorged: July, 2020.(AG) 96+\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e94 Points - John Gilman\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis bottling hails from the famed les Crayères vineyard in Ambonnay, and having spent five years aging sur latte in the Egly-Ouriet cellars, it is from the 2009 base year. The wine is starting to drink beautifully today, offering up a deep and blossoming nose of peach, apple, a touch of hazelnut, complex minerality, wheat toast, caraway seed and a fine, smoky topnote. On the palate the wine is deep, broad-shouldered, full-bodied and mineral-laden, with a rock solid core of fruit, fine focus and grip, elegant mousse and a long, brisk and complex finish. This is already starting to show the first elements of its secondary layers of complexity on both the nose and palate and is really an excellent bottle of bubbly. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e94 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA very striking nose with immense personality and distinctively richer, red orchard fruit characters. The oak is assertive yet fits in well adding cedary, woody aromas and spicy complexity; there's a hint of pepper too. The palate delivers an immensely concentrated flavorsome impression with ripe phenolics framing nectarine, brulée custard and blue fruit flavors. Powerful, detailed and balanced. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e93 Points - Wine \u0026amp; Spirits\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe vines at Les Crayères were planted in 1946, on the pure chalk soils of a south-facing hill in Ambonnay. Half of this wine is based on the 2009 harvest, fermented in oak barrels, 20 percent of them new; the other half, from the same vineyard, comes from 2008. It’s the most interesting of the Egly wines we tasted, as well as the most challenging, tasting like a red Burgundy, the power of its ripe red fruit amplified by oak. It’s generous, smoky, a little tannic, and firm for all its richness. A substantial, vinous Champagne, this should gain in expression as it ages.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e93 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA toasty version, with a fine, tightly knit mousse carrying lots of ground spice and graphite notes, as well as flavors of ripe black currant, lemon meringue pie, crystalized honey and toasted hazelnut. Well-cut, tangy acidity keeps this fresh and focused through to the spiced finish. (AN)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"North Berkeley","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52231961182513,"sku":null,"price":495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Egly-Ouriet_Les_Crayeres_Blanc_de_Noirs_Grand_Cru_Extra_Brut_Vielles_Vignes_Champagne_France_NV.jpg?v=1766441744"},{"product_id":"ulysse-collin-les-pierrieres-blanc-de-blancs-extra-brut-48-mois-champagne-france-nv","title":"Ulysse Collin, 'Les Pierrieres', Blanc de Blancs, Extra Brut, 48 Mois, Champagne, France, NV","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cb style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eof the Wine\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eOf all the Champagne growers to have emerged as producers in the past two decades, one may stand alone in terms of the excitement he has created: Olivier Collin of Champagne Ulysse Collin. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile other new stars are best known for one or two cuvées, every bottle that Collin is coveted by collectors. And, uniquely among today’s growers, his Champagnes are distinguished first by terroir and then by the length of aging. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis work revolves around five lieux-dits, only one of which is Pinot Noir: Les Maillons. Three are all Chardonnay: Les Pierrieres, Les Roises and Les Enfers. And the last and rarest,  Le Jardin d'Ulysse, represents all of the classic Champagne grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut having a line-up of terroir-based cuvees is not unique in Champagne these days. What makes Collin’s bottlings so unique (apart from their phenomenal quality) is the time of aging on the lees, which he has come to believe unlocks the secret to the greatness of his terroirs. \u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eOlivier Collin\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChardonnay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cu style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003eOrigin\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eDiscover the elegance of this Blanc de Blancs Champagne from Ulysse Collin. This non-vintage Les Pierrières bottling, disgorged in 2016 after 48 months on the lees, offers a symphony of citrus, white flowers, and brioche, with a crisp acidity and a lingering minerality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eDisgorged with 1.7 grams per liter dosage after 48 months sur lattes, Collin's NV Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Les Pierrières (2016) 48 months bursts with aromas of green apple, blanched almonds, confit citrus and pastry cream. Full-bodied, layered and muscular, it's deep and concentrated, with racy acids and this site's telltale chiseled, incisive profile; it's long and penetrating, concluding with chalky grip. With this late-disgorged version, Les Pierrières takes another step.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Decanter\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe bouquet is striking in its diverse range of complex scents - there are succulent and delicate aromas of white fruit, lemon, mandarin and almonds. Vinous and lively, the palate has a racy acidity and a penetrating, saline texture that prolongs the overall sensation to a long, airy finish. This is a gastronomic Champagne with great ageing potential. This blanc de blancs was disgorged in March 2020 with a dosage of 1.7g\/L. It is based on the 2016 vintage, complemented with a 60% foudre-aged reserve wine from the 2015 vintage.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52795354808625,"sku":null,"price":575.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Ulysse_Collin_Les_Pierrieres_Blanc_de_Blancs_Extra_Brut_48_Mois_Champagne_France_NV_54382c57-a604-4f9d-8aae-143b2fa48ca4.jpg?v=1770667944"},{"product_id":"krug-vintage-brut-champagne-france-1975","title":"Krug, Vintage Brut, Champagne, France, 1975 (A beautiful bottle)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSince 1843, six generations of the Krug Family have been creating the finest and rarest Champagnes. Behind every precious drop of Krug stands the dream of a visionary. One man who, long before others, understood that the essence of Champagne is pleasure. So, over 170 years ago, Joseph Krug broke with convention to follow his vision: to create the most generous expression of Champagne every year, regardless of climatic unpredictability. Thanks to an uncompromising craftsmanship, a unique individual plot by plot approach from harvesting to blending, an unparalleled library of 150 reserve wines, and an exceptional cellar aging, Krug is the benchmark when it comes to the best champagnes in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKrug Grande Cuvée is the flagship of the House and the archetype of Krug’s philosophy of craftsmanship and savoir-faire: a blend of more than 120 wines from ten or more different years. Its exceptional finesse is the result of a stay of at least another six years in the cellars. Over twenty years are needed to craft each bottle of Krug Grande Cuvee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery year since the foundation of the House in 1843, one creation, one blend, one bottling and thus one new Edition of Krug Grande Cuvée has come to life. The number of the Edition is now featured on the front label, and this year we celebrate the 164th Edition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHenri \u0026amp; Remi Krug\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMature, gold and clear color. Nose is intense, opulent, generous, and refined. Minty, vegetal, earthy, floral, and citrus flavors. Acidity is balanced with dry and silky tannins, leading to a short and metallic ending.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52855387128113,"sku":null,"price":3000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Krug_Vintage_Brut_Champagne_France_1975.jpg?v=1771450503"},{"product_id":"krug-vintage-brut-champagne-france-1990","title":"Krug, Vintage Brut, Champagne, France, 1990","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSince 1843, six generations of the Krug Family have been creating the finest and rarest Champagnes. Behind every precious drop of Krug stands the dream of a visionary. One man who, long before others, understood that the essence of Champagne is pleasure. So, over 170 years ago, Joseph Krug broke with convention to follow his vision: to create the most generous expression of Champagne every year, regardless of climatic unpredictability. Thanks to an uncompromising craftsmanship, a unique individual plot by plot approach from harvesting to blending, an unparalleled library of 150 reserve wines, and an exceptional cellar aging, Krug is the benchmark when it comes to the best champagnes in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKrug Grande Cuvée is the flagship of the House and the archetype of Krug’s philosophy of craftsmanship and savoir-faire: a blend of more than 120 wines from ten or more different years. Its exceptional finesse is the result of a stay of at least another six years in the cellars. Over twenty years are needed to craft each bottle of Krug Grande Cuvee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery year since the foundation of the House in 1843, one creation, one blend, one bottling and thus one new Edition of Krug Grande Cuvée has come to life. The number of the Edition is now featured on the front label, and this year we celebrate the 164th Edition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHenri \u0026amp; Remi Krug\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAhead lies an extraordinary adventure through the complex tapestry of the 1990 Krug from Krug. This laudable vintage unfolds like a riveting tale, thrusting us into an unforgettable narrative of nature and viniculture. The year of 1990 was characterised by a generous climate, gallantly augmenting the grapes maturity and thus bestowing this champagne with a profound depth and complexity. The initial contact of this wine with your palate may feel akin to a masterful ballet performance. Complex choreographies of ripe stone fruits, bejewelled citrus layers, and lusciously spiced honey intertwine in graceful pirouettes. The 1990 Krug mirror reflects the climate's generosity with powerful waves of flavour, marked by astonishing vitality and elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat sets the 1990 vintage apart from its siblings in time is undoubtedly its remarkable longevity. As an investor, one finds the promise of unwavering quality appealing. Produced under meticulously managed weather conditions, this vintage transcends conventional champagne characteristics encompassing both power and delicacy. Time has moulded it subtly, shades growing vibrant yet restrained, like a sumptuous aria sung in hushed tones. Yet, there remains life in this silent symphony, a longevity still to be determined.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine \u0026amp; Spirits\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eWhen I tasted this wine pre-release last year, it already showed itself to be great. Now with the benefit of an additional year of age, it may be the greatest Krug I've tasted. The wine has perfect harmony, all the elements in balance, a complex chord of flavor that lasts more than a minute after each sip. There's not much to say when a wine's internal energy and drive are so in tune with the flavors. Buy it if you can. Now 15 years old, it may have another 15 more to go without slowing down.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Burghound\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e1990 is one of my favorite vintages ever for this storied cuvée because while the vintage was on the riper side the high yields allowed the fruit to retain a very good level of acidity which made for balanced and ageworthy wines. While I have had the pleasure of tasting the '90 on a number of occasions since its release, the last time was alongside the 1985 and the 1988, and as admirable as those two vintages are, the 1990 is head and shoulders above them to my taste. The fantastically complex nose is comprised of an abundance of yeast and toast characters that don't completely dominate the essence of apple, pear, citrus, spice, acacia blossom and discreet orange peel scents. There is equally good depth to the delicious, full-bodied and powerful flavors that possess a lovely sense of vibrancy thanks to the still firm but fine mousse that shapes the delineated, delicious and impeccably well-balanced finale. In my view 1990 is one of the greatest vintages for this wine of the last 25 years and one that is still drinking well.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Int'l Wine Cellar\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFull copper-gold color. Initially restrained, brooding nose exploded with aeration, showing apple, orange, apricot, honey, iodine, smoke, hazelnut, macadamia and a suggestion of dry oloroso sherry. Dense, full, chewy and rich; an extraordinarily solid Champagne with an intriguing suggestion of Calvados. Broadens toward the back and goes on and on on the echoing aftertaste, with rich, mellow notes of toffee, brown butter and marrow. Like the '92 Clos du Mesnil, this displays its powerful underlying acidity with aeration (Krug's wines never go through malolactic fermentation) and should be long-lived.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAn aristocrat. Big-boned and intense, yet with finesse and complex flavors of coconut, whole-grain bread, ginger, citrus and honey. Waves of flavor saturate the palate and the long finish picks up a mineral and smoke note. Very harmonious from start to finish. Drink now through 2020.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAt its finest, the 1990 Vintage is superb, revealing a slightly oxidized style, but a full-bodied, rustic, rich personality with the body of a red wine, but loads of character. (RP)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA bit dark in color and lacking in bubbles, but when it comes to aromas and flavors it’s out of this world. Vanilla, cinnamon, almond and apple scents are ethereal and mature as can be, while the palate deals layered apple and spice in multiple layers. Runs a mile long but soft on the finish. Unique in style; not the least bit zesty.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 1990 Vintage, tasted from magnum, was remarkable for its opulent and exuberant personality and incredible finesse. (AG)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53144083333425,"sku":null,"price":1200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Krug_Vintage_Brut_Champagne_France_1990.jpg?v=1773269702"},{"product_id":"charles-heidsieck-la-collection-crayeres-brut-champagne-france-1995","title":"Charles Heidsieck, La Collection Crayeres, Brut, Champagne, France, 1995","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFrom the very start, the wines of Charles Heidsieck managed to seduce the royal courts of Europe. Today, the House’s wines are awarded the highest accolades by professional juries across the world. The quantity of medals and trophies regularly earned by Charles Heidsieck is simply extraordinary. The winemaking team has been awarded the “Winemaker of the Year” trophy nine times by the UK International Wine Challenge.\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRégis Camus joined Charles Heidsieck in 1994 and has been the head winemaker of the House since 2002. This meticulous and passionate professional likes to keep an eye on everything: the state of the vineyards, the selection of the grapes, their pressing and their vinification, cru by cru, in individual vats. His mission is to perpetuate the Charles Heidsieck style, reflecting the richness of the Champagne region.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eRégis Camus\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e60% Pinot Noir \u0026amp; 40% Chardonnay\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"38\" data-end=\"262\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"38\" data-end=\"53\"\u003eTO THE EYE:\u003c\/strong\u003e This champagne boasts a golden robe with amber hues, testament to its period of extended ageing. Fine, delicate bubbles rise to the surface with discreet elegance to form a fine, persistent string of bubbles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"264\" data-end=\"553\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"264\" data-end=\"280\"\u003eON THE NOSE:\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked, coffee notes intermingle with intense accents of toasted cacao. These are joined by aromas of dried yellow fruit, which develop slowly to lend the wine a gourmand, sun-drenched touch. On the bouquet, a subtle interplay of spices and garrigue elevates the ensemble.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"555\" data-end=\"947\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"555\" data-end=\"573\"\u003eON THE PALATE:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full-bodied and generous on the attack, with beautiful density. Its power is counterbalanced with a surprising freshness, which is much more pronounced than it first appears on the nose. An unfurling of juicy fruit flavours offers a vibrant, indulgent texture. A saline touch mingles with bursts of clementine for a flavourful and refined finish that lingers on the palate.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Breakthru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54070935683377,"sku":null,"price":358.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/CharlesHeidsieck_LaCollectionCrayeres_Brut_Champagne_France_1995.jpg?v=1777611997"},{"product_id":"frederic-savart-bulle-de-rose-premier-cru-brut-rose-champagne-france-nv","title":"Frederic Savart, Bulle de Rose Premier Cru Brut Rose, Champagne, France, NV","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e10 kilometers west of Reims, Ecueil is a historical village for pinot noir, a fine pinot that was famous in the 1960s, while the surrounding villages were planted mainly with meunier,\" explains Frédéric Savart. He took over his father's vineyard with passion and produces young, aromatic, fruity, tense and nuanced champagnes in the varietal expression. Fermentations in demi-muids are perfectly controlled and the distinction of the bubbles draws refined juices, punctuated with fine notes of controlled oxidation. great companions for aperitif and table, after four to five years of ageing. The wines could however gain in wisdom and comfort to seduce the delicate palates. champagne Ephémère is the result of the collaboration of two champagne winemakers. Frédéric Savart and Maison Dremont have created a cuvée from parcels of land to which they are very attached. A micro-production that is rooted in some of the best plots in champagne. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFrederic Savart\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChardonnay, Pinot Noir\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCuvée ephémère is made from old vines selected by its two founders, a special attention that does not leave us indifferent. each vintage is numbered from the first year. Each vintage has been a great success, giving this cuvée a reputation that continues to grow. For all the vintages, the secret of les ephémères is their ability to express themselves through fine and dynamic bubbles. A brilliant color for the blanc de blancs with contrasting tones. delicate and elegant champagnes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA pale and exciting rosé champagne that has hints of ginseng and seaweed to the citrus and red-berry fruit. Savory, even lightly earthy, with delicate bubbles and a spicy, dry finish. 65% pinot noir (of which 5% red wine) and 35% chardonnay. 3.5g\/L dosage. Disgorged 2023. Drink now.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grand Cru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54296810160433,"sku":null,"price":156.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/FredericSavart_BulledeRosePremierCruBrutRose_Champagne_France_NV.jpg?v=1779431711"},{"product_id":"bollinger-r-d-extra-brut-champagne-france-2008","title":"Bollinger, R.D. Extra Brut, Champagne, France, 2008","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eNote: The gift box would ship separately and require additional shipping charges\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIn 1829, Champagne Bollinger introduced an instantly recognizable, dry, toasty style that connoisseurs around the globe have coveted ever since. Six generations of the Bollinger family have maintained that trademark style, and Bollinger is one of the rare Grande Marque houses to be owned, controlled and managed by the same family since it was founded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 399 acres of vineyards situated in the best Grands Crus and Premiers Crus villages, Bollinger relies on its own estate for nearly two-thirds of its grape requirements, including the Pinot Noir that gives its Champagne its distinctive roundness and elegance. Bollinger is one of a select few houses that can control the quality of its grape supply so carefully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBollinger is renowned for its stringent quality standards. It adheres to traditional methods, including individual vinification of each marc and cru, barrel fermentation (it is the last Champagne house to employ a full-time cooper) and extra-aging on the lees prior to disgorgement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMembers of the British Royal Court were among the first to embrace Bollinger’s unmistakable quality, and Queen Victoria made Bollinger the exclusive purveyor to the Court by Royal Warrant in 1884. Besides royalty, loyal devotees have included heads of state, celebrities and even famous fictional characters: Agent 007, James Bond, demands the exclusive Champagne Bollinger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDenis Bunner\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e71% Pinot Noir \u0026amp; 29% Chardonnay\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cu style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003eOrigin\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eA wine glimmering with golden reflections. Enticing aromas of marzipan, stewed apricots, honey and breadcrumbs accompany fresh notes of bergamot. A rich, precise mousse. Citrus notes are followed by flavours of Mirabelle plums and vine peaches. A very vivaciours wine which unfolds to reveal exceptional complexity. Notes of fresh hazelnuts and salinity combine to create an intense, everlasting finish. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn order to showcase its unique style, we recommend serving Bollinger R.D. at a temperature of 12°C, then to appreciate the evolution of its aromas over the course of the tasting.\u003cbr\u003eThere are two different experiences possible.\u003cbr\u003e- The first entails a discovery of Bollinger R.D. during the same year of its disgorgement. In this case, the wine expresses a specific aromatic range, with complex fruity notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e- The alternative experience involves leaving Bollinger R.D. for several more years to mature in the cellar, which then reveals the depth of aromas characteristic of the finest vintages. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e99 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eAmazing aromas of sweet uncooked pie crust with almonds. Then you smell dried apples, apricots and pineapple. Grilled fruits, too. Full-bodied. So tangy and energetic with sizzling acidity and creamy tannins. Flavorful and lightly oxidized at the finish. Smacking my lips. Agile. Ginger and spices. A touch of bitter complexity with some salinity. Extreme character that grabs your attention. 13 years and six months aging on the lees with cork. 3 grams dosage. 71% pinot noir and 29% chardonnay. Don’t serve too cold.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e98 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2008 Champagne R.D. Extra Brut is chiseled, powerful, and packaged with a chalky mineral texture. Made from 70% Pinot Noir and the rest Chardonnay, with 3 grams per liter dosage, it pours a bright straw yellow hue, while its aromatics are more mineral-tinged and feel a touch more noble and upright in character. Aromatically, it opens to notes of toasted almond, preserved Meyer lemon, brothy saline, and vibrant fresh fruit. Displaying tension and grace, it has the richness of Bollinger but is more upright, with an electric mineral energy that courses through the finish, which lasts for days. Mouthwatering and long, it’s a stunner. It needs more time to harmonize all its components, but this is a wine to cellar for the ages, and I think this is going to be a vintage of RD we talk about for a very, very long time. (AF)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e98 Points - Wine Advocate \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhen I was tasting Bollinger's brilliant Grande Année in this vintage, I was trying to imagine how good the 2008 Extra-Brut R. D. would be, as the style of the vintage seems almost perfectly adapted to this cuvée. Four years later, we have the answer, and the wine is brilliant. Disgorged in 2022, it's more reserved out of the gates than the dramatic Grande Année was on release, unwinding in the glass with notes of crisp orchard fruit, orange peel, freshly baked bread, subtle hints of fino sherry, wet stones and macadamia nut. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, with a deep core of fruit that's animated by racy acids and a refined pinpoint mousse, concluding with a bone-dry finish. Extremely harmonious and full of youthful energy, it's the finest R. D. of the decade and one that will richly reward a bit of additional age on cork. In style, the most obvious comparison is with the 1996, but the 2008 is more integrated and harmonious on release. These bottles were disgorged late last year with three grams per liter dosage. (WK) 98+\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e97 Points - Decanter\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBright in colour with gold reflections, the aromatics are immediately captivating, with marzipan, acacia, apricot and patisserie all vying for attention. It’s impossibly youthful yet reassuringly mature, a bread basket of delicious contradiction. Cerebral seduction ensues on the palate, with dried fruits, bergamot and lime joining the party, then come the hazelnut notes – which have been identified as a leitmotif for the vintage – and a clean, almost chalky finish to restore rigorous harmony. Precision in no way undermines generosity, and generosity in no way undermines potential. A very fine piece of work all in all, tasted from magnum, alongside bottle and jeroboam. (SF)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Vinous \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBollinger’s 2008 R.D. is a powerful, vinous Champagne. Apricot, dried pear, tangerine oil, hazelnut, dried flowers, chamomile and brioche all race across the palate. The 2008 boasts notable depth and textural intensity, with a feeling of phenolic, almost tannin-driven grip from the Pinot that propels the finish. At times the R.D. is quite exotic, even if there is a good kick of energy from the bright, salivating acids and low dosage. The 2008 R.D. is very much a Champagne for the dinner table, a wine that benefits immensely from aeration. In 2008, the blend comprises fruit from 18 villages, 71% Pinot Noir, mostly from Aÿ and Verzenay and 29% Chardonnay, mostly from Mesnil-sur-Oger and Cramant. Dosage is 3 grams of dosage. I would give this a few more years in bottle to fully come together. (AG)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Breakthru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55720568652081,"sku":null,"price":398.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Bollinger_R.D.ExtraBrut_Champagne_France_2008_63320e90-4493-458c-a149-51f9f4de3e6d.jpg?v=1786663537"}],"url":"https:\/\/merchantofwine.com\/collections\/dec-27-champagne-extrodinare.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}