Wine With Wanda

Sparkle All Season With Champagne Piper-Heidsieck!

 

Tis the season to sparkle, in your spirit and in your glass! Get into the festive mood of the holiday season with a bottle of Champagne Piper-Heidsieck. It’s impossible to be a Grinch when Piper-Heidsieck’s petite bubbles are dancing in your glass! I’m happy to say that I’ve lost count of how many glasses of Piper-Heidsieck I’ve sipped over the years. Consistently elegant and always intriguing, Champagne Piper-Heidsieck always makes me smile. Founded in 1785, Piper-Heidsieck elicits smiles around the globe; it is poured in over 100 countries!

Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut ($60) is the House’s signature cuvée. Festive and full of finesse, it blends Pinot Noir, Meunier, and Chardonnay from 100 crus with reserve wines. A generous and balanced bubbly, it is crisp and round with bright fruit and vibrant energy. Classic and chic!

Look at that color! Piper-Heidsieck Rosé Sauvage ($72) brings a bit more drama to the party! An unusually large proportion of red wines give this Rosé champagne its stunning ruby hue and bold personality. Pinot Noir dominates the blend, of which 20-25% is vinified as red wine. Meunier, Chardonnay and reserve wines add additional complexity and nuance. Juicy red and black berry flavors mingle seamlessly with hints of spice.

Make it an even more festive and fabulous holiday season with Piper-Heidsieck!

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Chapoutier for the Holidays!

Add some ooh la la to the holidays with the wines of M.Chapoutier! I’m a big fan of Chapoutier’s elegant, terroir-driven, and authentic wines; they always add a bit of magic to meals and time together with friends and family.

I took this photo of Michel Chapoutier when we met in 2018. 

The Chapoutier family has been making wine in the Rhône Valley since 1808, but 1990 was a turning point in their history. With the bold visionary Michel Chapoutier at the helm, the family winery became a trailblazing powerhouse. Under Michel’s leadership, Chapoutier introduced Single Vineyard Selection wines that express the unique terroir of a site. To ensure that visually impaired wine lovers could access the information on his wine labels, Chapoutier began embossing their labels in braille. Also, since 1990, the Maison M. CHAPOUTIER has been unwavering in their commitment to practicing biodynamic viticulture. Care for the land and concern for others doesn’t just drive Chapoutier to make great wine, but to make a difference. 

I’ll be adding some ooh la la to the holidays with two Chapoutier wines.

Les Meysonniers Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 2019 ($45) is 100% Marsanne from gently sloping south-facing hillsides. It is described as a white wine that “epitomizes the character of Marsanne in Crozes-Hermitage”. “The nose is full of quince, peony, and roasted almonds and the palate is fresh and supple.”

Monier de la Sizeranne Hermitage 2016 ($162) is 100% Syrah sourced from three vineyards with different soil types. The winemaker's notes say, “Red fruits with a hint of liquorice are evident on the nose. The palate is round and elegant with flavours of blackcurrant, raspberry and spicy aromas when it is young."

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Elegant Sips from the South of France: The Wines of Maison Lorgeril

Miren de Lorgeril, CEO, Maison Lorgeril

Talk about Old World: the Lorgeril family has been making wine since 1620. But these prominent vintners are not stuck in the past. I recently had the pleasure of chatting on Instagram Live with Miren de Lorgeril, CEO of Maison Lorgeril, and discovered that the family enthusiastically embraces innovation without sacrificing authenticity. Lorgeril has expanded their footprint in the South of France, and they currently own six wineries in nine appellations of Languedoc and Roussillon.

During our chat, we tasted Lorgeril's Domaine de La Borie Blanche 2019, AOP Mivervois La Laviniere (Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvédre, $27) and Chàteau de Pennautier 2019, AOP Cabarde (Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache, $27). Elegant and beautifully balanced, these wines have a depth of flavor – fruit, minerality, and bright acidity. Miren explains how terroir, including Lorgeril's high-altitude vineyards, influences their flavor profile. For Miren's tasting notes, watch the video below, or click this link.

Vitalie Taittinger Leads an Effervescent Evolution at Champagne Taittinger

“If we consider that Champagne is only tradition, we will create the old Champagne, and I never want to, because Champagne is a lively brand, a lively product,” she says.“This is bubbly; this is sparkling; this is crispy. So, it has to breathe, and it has to continue to evolve.” - Vitalie Taittinger

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Vitalie Tattinger, president and CEO of Champagne Taittinger, for The SOMM Journal. Founded nearly a century ago, Champagne Taittinger is one of the few remaining family-owned and operated Champagne houses. You can find the profile on page 4 of the October/November 2021issue. 

 

Make Each Moment Sparkle with Champagne Delamotte

Cristian Rimoldi, Export Director, Champagne Delamotte 

The 2021 season of Wine With Wanda on Instagram Live kicked off on a sparkling note with Champagne Delamotte. My special guest was the House's export director, Cristian Rimoldi. Founded in Reims in 1760, at more than 250 years old, Delamotte is the fifth oldest house in Champagne.

Watch our chat on IGTV, YouTube, or by clicking the video below. In addition to discussing Delamotte's rich history, Cristian shared his personal and professional journey from the Argentinian Pampa to France. During out chat, we tasted Champagne Delamotte Blanc de Blancs NV ($90.99) and Champagne Delamotte Brut Rosé NV ($105.99). I completely agree with Cristian's sentiment that elegant and refreshing Champagne Delamotte can be enjoyed morning, noon, and night, and paired with a wide variety of cuisine. 

The Bubbly Side of Bond: Bollinger 007 Special Cuvée

The silver screen's most famous spy may be best known for the specific way he orders his Martinis, but James Bond, aka 007, is also a fan of bubbly, specifically Champagne Bollinger. Bollinger and Bond have been linked together since Roger Moore ordered it in 1973's Live and Let Die. Bolly, as the Brits affectionately call Bollinger, has been featured in 14 Bond films. And believe it or not, there has never been a formal agreement or exchange of money between Bollinger and the producers of Bond; the deal was sealed with a handshake in 1979 and has been honored for more than 40 years. Bond would approve. 

In honor of the newest Bond film, No Time to Die, and their long-standing relationship with the franchise, Bollinger has recently released an exclusive 007 Special Cuvée gift pack ($79). "The limited-edition gift box features the silhouette of James Bond alongside his Aston Martin DB5. The colourway of the gift box echoes the silver birch finish of the DB5. The Bollinger lettering and logos are depicted in gold, and the iconic Special Cuvée bottle has been adapted to feature a black and gold neck collar with a 007 blazon."

The wine contained in the limited edition 007 box and bottle is Bollinger's iconic Special Cuvée. If you're not a Bond fan and just want to purchase the classic bottle sans the 007 flourishes, it also retails for about $79. 

Of course, the association with Bond adds an extra dash of sex appeal to Bollinger's elegant image, but what really matters is the quality of the bubbly within the bottle. Special Cuvée is Bollinger's flagship wine and doesn't disappoint. True to the Bollinger style, Pinot Noir is the majority of the blend at 60%. Balanced out with 25% Chardonnay and 15% Meunier, Special Cuvée is composed primarily of reserve wines, part of which have been aged in magnum for 5-15 years. Complex, crisp, fresh, spicy, and full of finesse, it is a beautiful bubbly. Pop the cork on a bottle of Bollinger 007 Special Cuvée and unleash your international woman/man/person of mystery. 

Denis Bunner, Deputy Cellar Master, Bollinger

PS -  Last year, before the world went crazy, I had the pleasure of tasting through several Bollinger bubblies with their deputy cellar master, Denis Bunner. That seems like a lifetime ago, but I still remember the beauty of the wines. Founded in 1829, Bollinger is one of the few Champagne houses to produce the majority of the grapes for their blends. From their flagship Special Cuvée to their vintage wines like La Grande Année 2008 and R.D. 2004, Bollinger precisely balances richness with vibrancy. Pinot Noir is the dominant grape in Bollinger Champagne, and it imbues their bubblies with a luscious vinous quality. 

Burgundy Unfiltered: Domaine du Cellier aux Moines Pinot Noir is Rich in History & Soul

"Wine is a matter of personal search. People should not be shy and should go their own way. Sometimes I have friends bringing me a bottle of wine coming from another village, another region, and it's always fun to discover. Don't be shy. You don't have to be educated to appreciate wine. Listen to your feelings, your sense, your palate. Wine is not complicated. Wine is a matter of pleasure. Don't make it more complicated than it is." 

- Philippe Pascal, Owner, Domaine du Cellier aux Moines

I must confess that I approached my recent Instagram Live chat with Philippe Pascal, owner of Domaine du Cellier aux Moines, with a bit of trepidation. In addition to my worries about my very shaky pronunciation of French, I wondered if the owner of a prestigious Burgundy estate might be too serious for the inherent goofiness and spontaneity of Instagram Live. Well, I am happy to say that my fears were unfounded. Down-to-earth, funny, knowledgeable, and passionate, Phillipe was a fascinating guest. And he was completely unbothered by the honks and sirens wafting in from my busy Manhattan street!

Click here to watch our chat on IGTV. 

In 2004, Philippe, and his wife Catherine, left the corporate world behind and purchased Domaine du Cellier aux Moines. Founded in 1130 by Cistercian monks, over the centuries, the monks survived wars and plagues and produced wines that graced the tables of royalty and popes. When Catherine and Philippe purchased the property, it was in danger of disappearing, and they meticulously restored the estate’s ancient buildings and wine cellar.

For fans of Pinot Noir, Burgundy represents the crème de la crème, and the wines are loved for their authentic sense of place, elegance, and longevity. But my conversation with Philippe reminded me that Burgundy is not a monolith. Domaine du Cellier aux Moines is located in the Côte Chalonnaise, in Givry, an area that Philippe describes as underappreciated.

I encourage you to watch the video above, on IGTV, or YouTube. Philippe engagingly weaves historical facts with his personal journey. And his charming daughter Margot even joined us on camera occasionally and showed me their gorgeous vineyards. And if you want to learn even more, pour yourself a glass while reading Nine Centuries in the Heart of Burgundy: The Cellier Aux Moines and Its Vineyards, which was co-authored by Philippe.

While chatting, we sipped Clos du Cellier aux Moines, Givry Premier Cru 2017 ($65). 100% Pinot Noir, as all wines classified as red Burgundy are, this is a voluptuous, complex, and captivating red wine. Far from austere but still extremely elegant, this unfiltered red is full of life and character.

The Sparkling Torch Passes at Champagne Boizel

Florent and Evelyne Roques-Boizel represent the 6th and 5th generations of Champagne Boizel. 

I may never again witness a passing of the torch as elegant and heartfelt as the tender moment between Evelyne Roques-Boizel and her son Florent Roques-Boizel. After more than 40 years of leading her family’s respected 185-year-old Champagne house, Evelyne has entrusted Florent with the family’s legacy and he has been appointed CEO. 


A woman of exceptional strength and character, Evelyne unexpectedly found herself leading Champagne Boizel at the age of 22 when her father and brother passed away within 2 years of each other. During that tumultuous time, Evelyne’s primary focus was keeping the family business afloat. But along the way she developed an authentic and profound passion for Champagne. Evelyne believes that “passion keeps you modest because there is always something to learn.” In my conversation with Florent, it was clear that he shares his mother’s passion for Champagne and is committed to maintaining her exacting standards. Champagne Boizel is in very good hands. 

Founded in 1834, Boizel is located in the heart of Epernay, on the iconic Avenue de Champagne. Crafting their wines with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir sourced exclusively from Champagne’s most coveted Grands and Premiers Crus, Boizel uses only the first pressings of the grapes and dosage is kept to a minimum to preserve the wine’s natural expression. All of their wines are aged sur lie (on the lees) in their historic chalk cellars for a minimum of 3 years, and that aging process climbs to 15 years and beyond for the best vintages. That extended aging time noticeably adds complexity and texture to their wines. Fresh and elegant with delicate yet perky bubbles, Champagne Boizel’s wines are crisp, rich, and round; they sing with passion and precision.

Champagne Boizel Brut Réserve NV ($50) is a charming introduction to their House style. A fresh and crisp blend of Pinot Noir (55%), Chardonnay (30%) and Pinot Meunier (15%) that was aged three years sur lie in bottle, its flavors of citrus, apple, brioche, and white peach are vibrant and balanced. 

Such an elegant rosé! Champagne Boizel Rosé NV ($62) is a blend of Pinot Noir (50%), Pinot Meunier (30%) and Chardonnay (20%) that was aged for three years sur lie in bottle. The captivating color matches the energy of its crisp and vibrant raspberry, strawberry, and citrus flavors. 

Florent told me that their 100% Chardonnay Champagne Boizel Blanc de Blancs NV ($82) was the favorite of his father’s, whom they affectionately nicknamed “Mr. Chardonnay”! If you share my love of super-crisp, very mineral, and tantalizingly chalky Champagnes, this is the bubbly for you. Aged four years sur lie in bottle, layers of flavors and textures pirouette across the palate. Classic but not boring, this beauty has power and grace.

With zero dosage (no added sugar), Champagne Boizel “Ultime” Extra Brut NV ($90) is a very direct expression of terroir. Aged six years sur lie in bottle, this blend of Pinot Noir (50%), Chardonnay (37%), and Pinot Meunier (13%) displays a compelling medley of fruit, mineral, and savory flavors.

Only produced in the best years, Champagne Boizel Grand Vintage 2008 ($100) is a fine example of exceptional Champagne’s capacity for long aging. A blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir, this regal bubbly was aged 8 years sur lie in bottle. Still impressively fresh and lively, it is bold but not aggressive with a delightful interplay between citrus and nutty flavors. (2007 pictured but I tasted the 2008 vintage.)

A blend of 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay, Champagne Boizel “Joyau de France" Brut 2000 ($150) is produced only in the best years. Talk about extended aging – it spends an impressive 12 years aging sur lie in bottle. Bursting with vitality, it is crisp and mineral with tantalizing tinges of honey, almond, and marzipan.

Sip This: Lassègue Saint Émilion Grand Cru 2016

Trends come and go but Bordeaux is timeless. In a world of ever-changing wine fads, there’s something reassuring about sipping an Old World wine with a long tradition. But don’t mistake tradition for stagnation. Each vintage and each producer has a unique story to tell.

Since being introduced to Lassègue Saint Émilion Grand Cru several years ago, I’ve started to anticipate the subtle variations created in each vintage by that year’s climate conditions at their vineyards on the Right Bank of the Dordogne River. Will the wine be bigger and more robust because of a heat wave? Or more subdued because of cooler conditions? How will Lassègue’s winemaker, the acclaimed Pierre Seillan, adjust the blend in response to those variations? Lassègue consistently impresses me with their ability to create a wine that is an authentic representation of each particular vintage yet remains true to their style and terroir.

Château Lassègue was built in 1738. The striking structure and its 60 acres of vineyards were purchased by the Jackson and Seillan families in 2003. 
image courtesy of Château Lassègue

Lassègue Saint Émilion Grand Cru 2016 ($60) is a blend of Merlot (60%), Cabernet Franc (33%), and Cabernet Sauvignon (7%) from old vines with an average age of 40-60 years. According to the winery, “The 2016 vintage was characterised by a mild and wet winter and spring, followed by warm, sunny and dry conditions from July through harvest.” And “the dry and sunny summer helped the vines to flourish, resulting in perfectly healthy grapes at harvest.” The beautiful balance and vitality of this wine reflects the influence of those ideal conditions.

image courtesy of Château Lassègue

Luscious and rich but not overwhelming, 2016 Lassègue was aged for 12 months in French oak and has bold flavors of blackberry and plum with tangy pops of black licorice, dark chocolate, espresso bean, sweet clove, and earthy truffles. Vibrant acidity and a minerality that is delicately chalky with a thread of steely flint, make the wine lively and approachable without diminishing its grandeur. This is an exceptionally elegant Bordeaux. 

Sparkling Spotlight: Champagne Palmer & Co. Brut Réserve

What do you like to drink on a snowy day? Some people like a steamy cup of hot cocoa, I prefer a crisp glass of Champagne! As snow frosted the streets of Manhattan, I was warm and cozy inside with a bottle of Champagne Palmer & Co. Brut Réserve ($60). And since the first snow fall of the season is a special occasion, it only seemed fitting to pair it with Pearl Street Caviar Siberian Select (prices start at $25). You may call it decadent, I call it my snow day survival kit!


image courtesy of Champagne Palmer & Co.

A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier from the most prestigious terroirs in the Champagne region, Champagne Palmer Brut Réserve is full-bodied and vivacious. Aged four years on the lees, it is crisp and clean with delicate bubbles and a subtle creaminess. It pirouettes across the palate with flavors of lemon sorbet, golden apple, Japanese pear, and intriguing hints of ginger, hazelnut, and buttery brioche woven into the strong mineral core. A very elegant and delicious bubbly that is perfect on snowy days, sunny days, sultry nights, and more, Champagne Palmer & Co.’s flagship wine is quite impressive.  

image courtesy of Champagne Palmer & Co.

Founded more than 70 years ago by seven grower families with prized Premier Cru and Grand Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims region, the Champagne Palmer & Co. team clearly knows that great wine starts in the vineyards and you can taste the terroir and exceptional quality of the grapes in the bold and balanced Brut Réserve. 

Sparkling Spotlight: Meet Régis Camus, The Rare Talent Who Makes Rare Champagne

It takes a winemaker with exceptional talent and confidence to craft a champagne that lives up to the audacious name Rare. Régis Camus is such a winemaker. Quite frankly, Régis is the standard by which I judge all other champagne makers. And I’m not alone in my high opinion of his skills – Régis has been honored 8 times as Sparkling Winemaker of the Year by the International Wine Challenge. Yes, Régis has clearly mastered the art of making bubbly.

In 2018, Régis retired from Piper-Heidsieck after a tenure of 22 years, including 16 years in the prestigious role of cellar master. But you would have been foolish to count him out. Régis is now the cellar master for the House’s exclusive Rare Champagne. Produced only in the most exceptional vintages, only 11 vintages of Rare have been created in the last four decades. 

Over the years, I’ve had the honor of tasting several vintages of Rare with Régis. The exquisite beauty of Rare Champagne is rivaled only by his humility and humor. In our laughter-filled tastings, it has become clear to me that making champagne isn’t just his career, it is Régis’s calling. The accolades are certainly well-deserved but I am convinced that Régis would pour his heart into making exquisite champagne even if no one noticed. But we do notice.

Rare is always released to great fanfare and Champagne connoisseurs know that only exceptional bottles of bubbly are worthy of being bottled as Rare. It is vital for Régis that Rare Champagne has spicy notes and he told me that he will only deem a vintage Rare if freshness, minerality, and exotic notes are there. If not, he won’t make it. For that reason, no vintage was declared since 2002, until 2006.

“Rare Millésime 2006 is immediately delectable, both oriental and fresh, mature and warm. Thanks to its almost paradoxical mineral and opulent tautness, it shows substantial potential for expression.”
Régis Camus

Régis always provides succinct descriptions that capture the essence of each Rare vintage and has declared Rare 2006 ($175) as SUNNY. In 2006, copious sunshine with moderate temperatures increased the opulence of the grapes. Always a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, Régis said that Rare is always an “authentic image of the vintage.” Cellared for thirteen years, Rare 2006 has aged beautifully. It is very generous on the palate but still maintains a youthful energy. And its rich golden hue certainly evokes the warmth and brilliance of sunshine.

“I had already produced the first Rare Champagne rosé vintage in 2007. I took the liberty the following year of creating a successor, which would not be discovered until a decade later. Rare Rosé Millésime 2008 proves to be decisively graceful and mineral, much like a Mondrian, with nuances of quartz.”
Régis Camus

Rare Rosé 2008 ($450) is only the second vintage of rosé, Rare Rosé 2007 was the first. While the 2007 was described as SENSUAL, Régis has deemed Rare Rosé 2008 to be PRECISELY GRACIOUS. The first thing you notice is the beautiful shade of coppery pink, reminiscent of pink quartz. Régis spoke of the challenges of making the color consistent and his disdain for rosé that is more orange than pink. A blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, Régis is adamant that Rare Rosé display vibrant fruit and color but not aggressive tannins. Silky and delicate but impactful, Rare Rosé 2008 is sexy and elegant with a subtle sensuality. It swept me off my feet.

Yes, Rare 2006 and Rare Rosé 2008 are splurges but these impeccably crafted wines take you on a journey that reveals the unique power and beauty of vintage Champagne and the dedication, passion, and precision required to make wine at this level. With great anticipation, I await Régis’s declaration of the next Rare vintages.

A Memory in Every Bubble: The Timeless Beauty of Champagne Taittinger

Champagne Taittinger winemaker Alexandre Ponnavoy and artistic director Vitalie Taittinger. 

If I ever felt any uncertainty that Champagne plays a starring role in in many of life’s special moments, those doubts were elegantly dissolved in a glass of Taittinger. At a recent media lunch, I watched fairly reserved wine writers get absolutely giddy as they shared Taittinger tinged memories. One couple, married for decades, passed around a precious photo from their wedding day, where a case of Taittinger was in prominent view like a VIP guest. Another writer, recently engaged, beamed as she told us that she and her fiancé had toasted their special moment with Taittinger. Old love or new love, it seems that where there’s love, there’s Taittinger.

After all, it takes a lot of love to make Champagne – the process is labor intensive and requires extreme patience. This love has inspired the Taittinger family for generations. One of the few remaining family-owned and operated Champagne houses, Taittinger doesn’t simply make bubbly; they are committed to preserving a tradition and cultural treasure.

As the bubbly and memories flowed at our media luncheon, Vitalie Taittinger (artistic director) and Alexandre Ponnavoy (winemaker) generously shared the Taittinger story. Vitalie describes her father, Pierre-Emmanuel-Taittinger, the grandson of the founder, as the “memory of the House.” Memory is an integral part of the Champagne process because each year the winemaker is challenged with creating a wine that evokes the core attributes of the house style.

We tend to use Champagne as a generic term but each house has a different style and Taittinger is unique in several ways. Unlike most large Champagne houses, Taittinger relies primarily on estate grown grapes to produce their wines, instead of depending heavily on outside growers. Taittinger also uses a higher percentage of Chardonnay grapes in their blends. Winemaker Alexandre Ponnavoy said that Chardonnay brings “energy and elegance” to the blend but that it is also important to “respect the scale” between Chardonnay and the other grapes – Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. 

I’ve been a Taittinger fan for years so it was fascinating to taste these exceptional Champagnes with Alexandre and Vitalie. Now, I have a new experience to add to the trove of beautiful memories inspired by their bubbly. To make your own special moments even more memorable, pop the cork on one of these fantastic bottles of Champagne Taittinger.

Champagne Taittinger Brut la Française NV ($64.99)
Nonvintage is always the best way to understand the style of a Champagne house. As winemaker Alexandre Ponnavoy said, this is Taittinger’s “ambassador cuvée and how you introduce the spirit of Taittinger.” What a lovely introduction. A blend of Chardonnay (40%), Pinot Noir (35%) and Pinot Meunier (25%), it contains a higher proportion of Chardonnay than other nonvintage Champagnes, which imbues it with impressive elegance and freshness. It was also aged 3-4 years on the lees, which is more than twice as long as required. This extended aging adds beautiful brioche and toasty notes that meld beautifully with the vibrant and crisp fruit flavors.


Champagne Taittinger Prestige Rosé NV ($84.99)
This quite luxurious rosé Champagne is a blend of Pinot Noir (50%), Chardonnay (30%), and Pinot Meunier (20%). Aged three years on the lees, it is full and crisp with lively flavors of red fruits, blood orange, and a hint of zest.


Champagne Taittinger Brut Millésimé 2013 ($102)
A blend of equal proportions of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Taittinger only produces Brut Millésimé in exceptional vintage years.  Speaking of the 2013, Alexandre said, “There is wonderful energy in this vintage” and “lots of yellow fruit” in its aroma and taste; such as citrus, yellow grapefruit and pear. Aged for five years on the lees, it is rich yet graceful with fine bubbles and a seductively long finish.

Champagne Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2007 ($215.99)
100% Chardonnay, this precise bubbly is powerful yet graceful. Only produced in exceptional vintage years, the Chardonnay grapes were sourced from the top vineyards of Côte des Blancs. Aged for ten years on the lees, this is a next-level Champagne that balances brightness and vivacity with tantalizing hints of exotic smoke, anise, and a kiss of salinity. A beautiful symphony of flavor!

Let the Rosé Flow: Three Terrific Pink Wines from Virginia, Provence, and Oregon

Can you even imagine summer without rosé? Luckily, we don't have to! Rosé wines are delicious year-round but there's no denying that these flirty pink sips are particularly suited to the sunny and carefree vibe of the summer season. Pretty and refreshing, rosé wines are a fun way to explore new regions and grapes. I plan on taking my taste buds on a delicious rosé journey all summer long and will keep you updated with short reviews of my favorites. Cheers! 

Early Mountain Rosé 2018 ($25) is a juicy and fresh blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Petit Verdot. Bone dry but bursting with vibrant red berry and citrus flavors and zippy acidity, this elegant rosé has pizzazz. If you’re not familiar with Virginia wines, Early Mountain is a charming introduction.

No rosé tasting is complete without taking your palate on a journey to the place that started the world's pink wine obsession - Provence! Berne "Inspiration" Côtes de Provence Rosé 2018 ($20) is a chic and tasty example of a classic Provençal rosé. A blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, this dry but fruity wine captivates the taste buds with luscious red berry flavors and lively hints of lavender, basil, and thyme. Take a sip, close your eyes, and imagine yourself in the south of France! 

 

Are you ready for a glass of Oregon ooh la la? Chehalem Rosé of Pinot Noir 2018 ($25) is the perfect summer sip. Renowned for their superb Pinot Noir, Chehalem's rosé is more playful but equally impressive. Delicate but not wimpy, with lovely soft red fruit flavors and juicy acidity, this flirty rosé has style and substance.

Rosé Spotlight: Mathilde Chapoutier "Grand Ferrage" Côtes de Provence 2018

Rosé season is in full swing and I'm ready to sip my way around the world! Not only do I love discovering wines from different producers and regions, summer is the perfect time to sample the new vintages of my favorite pink wines. My first experience with Mathilde Chapoutier "Grand Ferrage" Côtes de Provence was with the 2015 debut vintage and it was love at first sip. I'm happy to report that the thrill is still there with the 2018 vintage. (Available now for $24.) 

Mathilde Chapoutier in the vineyards of Château Des Ferrages 
image courtesy of Mathilde Chapoutier

Mathilde is the daughter of iconic wine producer Michel Chapoutier but through the delicate power of her rosé she has made a name for herself. A blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and Rolle from Mathilde's vineyard at the foot of the Saint-Victoire mountains, Grand Ferrage is a classic Provençal rosé. Dry yet juicy with vibrant acidity and flavors of fresh strawberry, grapefruit, and apricot; this pretty pink wine is absolutely refreshing.  

When I met Mathilde in 2016 she described her rosé as "simple, elegant, and easy to drink." She hasn't veered from this approach and the consistency of Grand Ferrage is impressive. Well-made and very approachable, this is my kind of rosé! 

This is a sponsored post but I am a true fan of this wine and all opinions are my own! 

Blue Skies, Pink Wines, and Red Hot Passion: The Captivating Wines & People of Provence

In a world where few places live up to the hype, Provence elegantly exceeds it. From the breathtaking natural beauty of lavender fields in the Luberon to the glitzy yacht culture of St. Tropez, there really isn't one Provence. A captivating tapestry of diverse landscapes, moods, and people; wine is the perfect vehicle for discovering Provence's many charms. 

image courtesy of Wines of Provence

It would not be exaggerating to deem Provence the rosé capital of the world. It is the only region to dedicate 90% of their wine production to rosé. The United States is second only to France in consumption of rosé and 46% of Provençal rosé wines, an astounding 57.5 million bottles, were exported to the USA last year. The allure of Provence's pale pink wines fueled a global rosé sensation. Not just for summer, the desire to drink rosé all day has crescendoed to rosé all year for wine lovers. The runaway success of rosé from Provence has inspired many winemakers around the globe to emulate the region's pale pink style of wine. Others may succeed in crafting rosé wines but only Provence can lay claim to being the true originators of the rosé lifestyle. 

The pale pink wines of Provence are the best known but at the Rosé Research Center we explored the six main shades of Provençal rosé.

A recent visit to Provence as a guest of Wines of Provence was a refreshing deep dive into the region's wine culture. While a fresh and flirty style of rosé put wines from Provence on the map, wines from the region are actually produced in a myriad of styles, including aged rose that spends time in oak and sparkling. And yes, Provence also produces red & white wines. We tend to think of Provence as a monolith but the region actually has three wine appellations that produce very distinctive styles of wine: Côtes de Provence, Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, and Coteaux Varois en Provence. 

Visiting every winery in Provence would be an enjoyable feat of endurance but nearly impossible for most of us. But La Maison des Vins Côtes de Provence makes it easy to taste wines from almost every winery in the region. The boutique features 800 Provençal wines and they host informative tastings and workshops. During my visit, sommelier David Hospital mapped out the Côtes de Provence winemaking region. I always say that wine makes geography much more interesting! 

Côtes de Provence is the largest and most famous of Provence's wine appellations and produces more than 70% of the AOC's wines. Rosé accounts for 90% of Côtes de Provence wines. Spanning more than 20,000 hectares, the terroir of Côtes de Provence is so diverse that it is further divided into 4 terroir designations: Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire, Côtes de Provence Fréjus, Côtes de Provence La Londe, and Côtes de Provence Pierrefeu. Don't get overwhelmed by the names, just remember that these designations indicate that the wines have a certain typicity because of shared terroir and climate. 

 Ooh la la, Saint-Tropez. I discovered that you don't need a yacht to feel like a high roller in this glitzy fishing village. The affordable ferry ride is pretty fantastic. 

I love rosé year-round but there's no denying that the wine has a special allure in the warmer months. As rosé season kicks into high gear and a delightful cloud of pink descends upon us, it is important to remember the people behind the wine. Rosé may seem easy breezy but it takes skill and dedication to make quality rosé. As I look back on my trip, the only thing more captivating than the beauty of Provence's landscapes and mouthwatering food & wine, were the people that I met. Generous with their time and wine, it became clear to me people in Provence have mastered the art of living well. 

Magali Combard is cool, there's no doubt about it. After visiting her family's Domaine Figuière winery, I'm convinced that Magali's charisma and can-do attitude energize the vineyards and everyone she encounters. No stranger to taking on a new challenge, in 2004 Magali left her life in Paris to join the family winery in Provence as the sales and marketing manager. During our tasting, every few minutes Magali would pop up from the table to bring another wine for us to try. Each beautifully crafted wine told the story of the Combard family's commitment to each other and to making wines that authentically express their land.

image courtesy of Domaine Figuiére

Located between Toulon and Saint-Tropez, Figuière is just one kilometer from the sea and they describe their estate as "a paradise where the land meets the sea." Although it is located in one of the sunniest places in France, Magali credits the sea breezes for regulating the heat so that their grapes are balanced and healthy. The soil is another important factor and the terroir of Figuière is mostly schist rock that imbues the wines with a tangible minerality. And even before most people were thinking about organic wine, Figuiére has grown their grapes organically since 1979. Their 210 acre vineyard is home to Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Vermentino (aka Rolle) and other varieties typical of Provence. 

Figuière has an impressive and diverse portfolio that includes rosé, white, red, and sparkling. One of the standouts is Magali Signature Rosé ($25.99), a supple, vibrant, and full-bodied blend of Cabernet, Syrah, Cinsault, and Grenache. Magali said her namesake wine is Figuière's top-selling wine in the USA.  

Jean-François Ott, Co-Director of Domaines Ott, at their Clos Mireille estate. 

Founded in 1912 by Marcel Ott, Domaines Ott is one of Provence's most iconic wineries. Their wines have had a presence abroad for decades and Ott began shipping rosé to our shores in 1938! Hmmm, perhaps Ott should be credited for quietly starting the rosé revolution?

Vintage Domaines Ott bottles

Today, cousins Jean-François Ott and Christian Ott carry on this family legacy as co-directors of their three estates. During my visit, I had the chance to tour Ott's stunning seaside estate, Clos Mireille, with Jean-François. The Mediterranean breezes and soils composed of schist and clay add impressive character to the grapes grown on their 124 acres of vineyards. Jean-François said that he wants the wines to "preserve the flavor of the terroir and the taste of the grape". They do. 

The Ott portfolio eloquently expresses the range of rosé from Provence. To get started, I recomend their Domaines Ott Clos Mireille Côtes de Provence Rosé ($52). A blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and Rolle; it beautifully captures the Mediterranean soul of the estate. The price may seem hefty for a rosé but Clos Mireille shows that rosé can rise to level of fine wine and merits a price that reflects the quality of the winemaking.  


Domaine Saint Andrieu winemaker Grégory Guibergia. We didn't speak the same language but still shared plenty of laughs while sipping his superb wines. 

Should you ever hear that I've run off to Provence and care to come looking for me, Domaine Saint Andrieu is one of the places you should check. Located at the base of Bessillon Mountain, to reach Domaine Saint Andrieu you drive through the picturesque organic town of Correns and ascend up, up, up a rustic road. You may be greeted by some adorable goats as you climb and once you reach the top, paradise awaits -- the château of your dreams and wonderful wine.

Domaine Saint Andrieu produces red, white, and rosé wines from traditional Provençal varieties. Their superb Saint Andrieu Côtes de Provence Rosé ($20) is a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah. Fresh and full-bodied, it is a perfect match for the vibrant flavors of the season. These wines are meant for sharing with friends over a beautiful meal.

My time at Domaine Saint Andrieu reminded me of the power of good wine and food to bring people together. Sitting in the sultry Provençal sun and lunching on a simple but lovingly prepared meal, I was thousands of miles from Manhattan but I felt at home.



Throughout the spring and summer, I'll be sharing more information about the rosé, red, and white wines of Provence and the charming people that I met along the way. Cheers! 

Make Every Moment Exceptional with Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne

"Science and sensitivity, great wine is always a balance between the two. Technology is not against tradition." - Benoît Gouez, Cellar Master, Moët & Chandon

Someone recently asked me what I enjoy most about wine writing. Aside from the obvious delights of drinking wonderful wines and traveling to vineyards near and far, the greatest joy continues to be the people that wine brings into my life. Some of my richest new friendships have been formed over a shared passion for wine. Wine has a way of breaking down barriers and slowing down time that fosters a connection. Share a bottle of wine with someone and you tend to discover more similarities than differences and an appreciation for the beauty in our differences. For the past three years I've had the pleasure of tasting the new vintages of Moët & Chandon Champagne with their cellar master Benoît Gouez and it has become one of my most anticipated appointments each year. 

The first year that we met, I confess to being a bit awe struck. Truthfully, I wondered if the invitation to meet with Benoît had been sent to me by mistake. Founded in 1743, Moët & Chandon is one of the most iconic champagne houses in the world. During my first meeting with Benoît, his down-to-earth demeanor and welcoming personality instantly put me at ease. Once that ice was broken, Benoît beautifully dispelled any notion that Moët & Chandon's size and status somehow rendered them not concerned with artistry, quality, tradition, and innovation. Benoît is passionate and precise about winemaking and committed to making sure that each bottle of bubbly lives up to Moët & Chandon's rigorous standards and rich legacy.  

During our most recent meeting in New York City, Benoît generously shared his time and Moët & Chandon's 2012 Grand Vintage releases. Only released in exceptional vintages, the Grand Vintage wines showcase not only the unique qualities of that year but Benoit's interpretation of the vintage. "The wines made from black grapes, especially the fragile Meunier, were particularly good in 2012, which explains why they make up an important part of the assemblage. This Grand Vintage is a softly fresh and harmonious wine that reveals itself slowly but with supple assurance, like the gentle transition of spring into summer, and envelops the palate, blossoming into a crisp yet balanced bouquet."

Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2012 Extra Brut Champagne ($75) is the House's 74th declared vintage. A blend of Chardonnay (41%), Pinot Noir (33%) and Meunier (26%), this majestic bubbly is rich and complex but also has a gentle coyness that is quite seductive. Supple with fine bubbles, crisp apple and pear flavors are lifted by hints of ginger and lychee, with a hint of butterscotch and citrus. The decadently long finish leaves a lasting impression on the palate. Exuberant and impeccable, this is a transcendent champagne. 

Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé Extra Brut 2012 ($85) is the House's 43rd rosé vintage and evokes the transition from spring to summer. A blend of Pinot Noir (42% of its assemblage of which 13% is red wine), Chardonnay (35%), and Meunier (23%); this is an exceptionally elegant and expressive rosé champagne. There's an unabashed fleshiness in this bubbly's red fruit flavors but hints of citrus and stone fruit add verve. Sexy and sophisticated! 


The Moët & Chandon 2012 Grand Vintage champagnes are superb examples of Benoît's artistic nature. I recently shared both of these wines with my very picky friends and everyone was impressed by their beauty. Wow was uttered more than once. If you're looking for wines that will make even a casual meal with friends feel like a gala occasion, pop open a bottle of Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne! 

 

Secrets and Wines: Guigal Acquires the Historic Château de Nalys in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

"We're not taking over a fancy name, or a fancy brand, or a fancy vineyard; we're taking over a terroir."
- Philippe Guigal, third generation winemaker, E. Guigal

Always charming and gracious, I recently discovered that winemaker Philippe Guigal is also very skilled at keeping a big secret! In spring 2018, we had a laughter-filled tasting of his family's famous & fabulous E. Guigal wines from the Rhône Valley in the south of France. A few months later, I was invited to meet with Philippe again because he had some major news to share -- in July 2017, almost a year before our April meeting, his family had acquired the historic Château de Nalys estate & winery in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Was I the last person on the planet to hear this news? (Really, Philippe? Not even a hint did you give me. Well played, Monsieur!)

However, all was forgiven when Philippe, and his lovely wife Eve, hosted a special tasting of the Château de Nalys wines in November 2018. Since their founding in 1946 by Philippe's grandfather, Etienne Guigal, E. Guigal has always produced a Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine but they did not have their own estate in this prestigious winemaking region in the southern Rhône. 



The Guigal family had been searching for a property in Châteauneuf-du-Pape for more than 20 years. Acknowledged in land registers as far back as the 16th century, Nalys is one of the oldest estates in the region. But it isn't just age that makes Nalys special. A true rarity, Nalys actually contains all 13 of the grape varieties that are permitted in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape blend. This extraordinary vineyard consists of 3 adjoining parcels spanning more than 125 contiguous acres. Impressive! 

During our meeting, Philippe and Eve spoke of the deep love and respect that they already have for this great land. They don't view the acquisition of Nalys as just an expansion of the Guigal legacy but as a commitment to serving as stewards and protectors of this precious terroir. With this in mind, Guigal will be making some improvements to the winemaking and vineyard practices at Nalys but in a respectful way that honors its legacy. 

2017 marks the first Château de Nalys vintages produced by the Guigal family. The wines display an elegance, energy, and expression of place that are a signature of the Guigal style. I can only imagine how impressive future vintages will be as the Guigals become even more intertwined with the property. 

Saintes Pierres de Nalys Blanc Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2017 ($58)
Saintes Pierres means holy stones, a cheeky play on the soils and history of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The region's soils are famous for a top layer of pebble shaped galet stones and the name of the region means "the Pope's New Home" -- a reference to the 14th century move of the Pope from Rome to Avignon. A blend of Clairette, Bourboulenc, Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, and Picardan; this white wine is a beautiful medley of mineral, citrus, peach, and herb flavors. Fresh and full. 

Saintes Pierres de Nalys Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2016 ($58)
A blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Muscardin, Counoise, and Mourvedre; this lovely wine strikes an impressive balance between richness and freshness. Juicy red fruit flavors wrap around a thread of earth and soft tannins. 

Château de Nalys Grand Vin Blanc Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2017 ($105)
A grand blend of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc, and Picquepoul, this white is bold but full of grace. Full-bodied and plush with a touch of spice and cream. Vibrant citrus with a kiss of tropical fruit. Pretty and powerful. 

Château de Nalys Grand Vin Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2016 ($105)
There's nothing timid about this precise blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Counoise, and Vacarese. Bold and complex flavors of dark fruit, rich earth, spice, and minerals open up beautifully in the glass. 


One of the things that I love about Guigal wines is that they are consistently elegant but never aloof. Beautifully made, they always tell a story and express their unique terroir. The essence of the grape and the place is never obscured. I look forward to following the Nalys chapter of the Guigal's wine journey for many years to come. And next time, I'll be sure to ask Philippe about any secret projects!

Eat, Drink and Let Laughter Flow: Life Lessons from Winemaker Michel Chapoutier

 

I had been warned that this would be no ordinary winemaker lunch but nothing could have prepared me for the force of nature that is Michel Chapoutier. Gregarious and unfiltered, this icon from the Rhône Valley shatters any image that you may have of a prim and reserved French winemaker. Michel lives life with gusto and if you choose not to go along for the ride, that's your loss! 

"A winemaker has to be obsessed by food," said Michel as we tucked into a superb lunch at Troquet, a charming and cozy French restaurant in NYC's Soho neighborhood. To reinforce his point, Michel playfully grabbed a love handle and chuckled "imagine how much it cost me to do that!" and proclaimed it the expensive side-effect of using the influential French restaurant review directory, the Michelin Guide. Not just an enthusiastic gourmand, Michel is also a talented home chef and I've heard rave reviews from those fortunate enough to enjoy a meal prepared by Michel.


Food and wine together, as they were meant to be. Wine by M. Chapoutier, food by Troquet.

As a winemaker, Michel's passion for cuisine is rooted in his belief that a true winemaker "understands that food and wine have to be married. Too many winemakers are making wines that are powerful but don't pair well with food." For Michel, the relationship between wine and food should be one of equals, "it should not be a dominant/subordinate relationship."

Like Jagger or Springsteen for music lovers, the name Chapoutier is revered among wine aficionados. The Chapoutier family settled in the Rhône Valley in 1808 and their wines represent some of the most prestigious appellations in the world; including Hermitage, Côte Rôtie, and Châteuneuf-du-Pape. Michel took over the family legacy in 1990, at the young age of 26. Since his tenure as leader, M. Chapoutier winery has earned more 90+ ratings in Wine Spectator than any other winemaker in the world. 


image courtesy of M. Chapoutier

"Come to Tain l’Hermitage and you will see our connection to the vineyards: our winery and our homes are surrounded by the vineyards where we grow our grapes. When I walk outside my door, I find myself in the middle of our vines,” said Michel. Proud of tradition but not afraid to innovate, Chapoutier was one of the first winemakers and grape growers to convert a historic estate to biodynamic and chemical-free farming. And in an industry still dominated by men, more than half of the executives at his company are women. Even his daughter Mathilde has turned her attention to winemaking and makes a mighty fine rosé! 

I've written about Chapoutier's wines many times over the years and their quality and vitality never cease to impress me. Filled with life and vigor, these wines are a true reflection of Michel's personality and his commitment to crafting wines that authentically express the essence of their terroir. Chapoutier has an extensive portfolio of wines at all price points but our lunch featured 4 very special bottles. 


M. Chapoutier La Combe Pilate IGP Collines Rhodaniennes 2016 ($38.99)
100% Viognier from a hillside vineyard near Michel's home, La Combe fully explores the winemaker's commitment to biodynamic winemaking and is part of his experimental range called The Alchemy Wines. The symbol on the bottle is the alchemic symbol for spirit and references Chapoutier's commitment to crafting wines that authentically showcase the spirit of the land. Fresh and savory with great minerality and texture, Michel recommends pairing La Combe with spicy food.


M. Chapoutier Hermitage Chante-Alouette 2016 ($110)
100% Marsanne and a fine example of Michel's belief that the best wines are made from one grape variety. This coveted appellation of Hermitage is named after the tiny chapel at its highest point that was once home to hermits. Marsanne is capable of making some of the world's top and most long-lived whites. This majestic wine is complex and full bodied with vibrant flavors of quince and honey with a tinge of almond and ginger. A great match with seafood or a rustic roast chicken.



M. Chapoutier Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne 2012 ($135)
Such a sensational Syrah! Unfiltered and unfined, Monier de la Sizeranne is a pristine and pure expression of terroir; rich and round with deep flavors of black fruits and a touch of licorice. Starting with Sizeranne in 1996, Chapoutier was the first winery to put Braille on a wine label. Now all Chapoutier wines have Braille labels. Sizeranne is a tribute to another icon of the Rhône, Maurice de la Sizeranne. Born in 1857, Maurice lost his sight when he was nine years old and later in life he perfected the system of abbreviated Braille widely used today in France. Chapoutier sources the grapes for Monier de la Sizeranne from land that was formerly owned by the Sizeranne family and later purchased by Chapoutier's great-grandfather. A perfect match with steak, roast, or lamb.



M. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Pavillon 2014 ($320)
Only 600 cases are produced each year of this seriously sexy and elegant Syrah. Supple and velvety with focused power, it is a compelling balance of strength and grace. Bold fruit flavors meld seamlessly with subtle hints of piquant licorice and earthy tobacco. A flawless match with roasted and juicy red meat paired with root vegetables and excellent company.

Michel Chapoutier's joie de vivre is contagious! Yes, he's a wine icon who approaches winemaking with absolute seriousness and authenticity, but Michel doesn't let his tremendous success and elite position hinder his capacity for unabashed laughter, even at himself. Great wine and delicious food, paired with a hearty dose of laughter, and fulfilling work fueled by passion; I plan to follow Michel's recipe for living life to the fullest!

Legendary Champagne Maker Régis Camus Takes a Rare & Wonderful Detour

In the rarefied world of champagne, Régis Camus garners genuine admiration and awe. Honored an astounding 8 times as Sparkling Winemaker of the Year by the International Wine Challenge, Régis joined Piper-Heidsieck in 1994 and ascended to the prestigious position of cellar master in 2002. Many were stunned when Régis announced his retirement from Piper-Heidsieck in 2018 but don't count him out; he's embarked on an exciting new chapter as cellar master for the House's exclusive line of Rare Champagne. Produced only in the most exceptional vintages, only nine vintages of Rare have been created in the last four decades.  


I recently had the pleasure of sipping Rare 2002 ($225) with Régis on his whirlwind visit to New York City. Although our conversation required the assistance of a lovely translator, the warmth of Régis's personality shines through in his easy laugh and twinkling eyes. Régis said that "each Rare vintage has its own personality" and that the latest 2002 release is "generous and rich but very refined and delicate." Rare is always a blend of Chardonnay (70%) and Pinot Noir (30%) but each vintage is a unique expression of that year. (Rare Rosé 2007 is the exception to this blending proportion. The first, and only Rare Rosé vintage thus far, it is a blend of 56% Chardonnay and 44% Pinot Noir.) 

Rare 2002 has beguiling flavors of Asian & tropical fruits, crisp minerality, and tinges of spice. A precise and vivacious wine, Régis says that "when you smell it, you can't imagine that this wine is 16 years old" because the aromas are so vibrant. Because of Rare 2002's exceptional structure, Régis believes that "it is a wine that can be saved for 10-15 years more."

Limited-Edition Rare Le Secret Goldsmith Edition Magnum ($1000). The bottle was decorated by Mellerio, the oldest jeweler in the world.

Régis has a philosophical attitude about his decision to move on from the larger-scale winemaking of Piper-Heidsieck to focus on Rare -- "the time had come to pass the torch to the next generation" in the same way that it had passed to him earlier in his career. Believing that "the most important thing is to stay young in your mind," even at this stage in his journey as a winemaker Régis has shown himself capable of innovation and surprise -- "In 1997, I decided to secretly blend a very limited quantity of Rare Champagne, which I preserved only in magnums.” That secret stash of about 1,000 magnums has recently been released as the aptly named Le Secret.  

Unlike Rare Champagne, Le Secret has no dosage (sweetness added back into champagne after disgorgement). Delightfully dry but not austere, Le Secret is bold with exuberant flavors of lemon and citrus fruit, hints of fresh apricot, and verbena that are enhanced by minerality and exotic flavors. Le Secret has its own personality but clearly has Rare DNA and the Régis touch. How good is it? Five of us finished a magnum of Le Secret in record time over lunch! Clearly at $1000 a magnum, Le Secret is a splurge but sometimes it's interesting to know such beautiful things exist even if our budgets and sensibilities don't permit such extravagance. 

If you really want to daydream or have $100,000 to spare, a few bottles of Le Secret have been adorned with fine jewels from Mellerio, the world's oldest jeweler. A shared link to Marie-Antoinette made this collaboration a natural fit: according to Piper-Heidsieck "in 1780, the Queen of France is said to have acquired a Mellerio bracelet formed of seven cameos and adorned with garnets. In a similar tale, a few years later, she was presented with what would later become Rare Champagne."



Even without being draped in jewels fit for a queen, a bottle of champagne crafted by Régis Camus is something to treasure. And I certainly value the time that I've spent sipping champagne with this charming and accomplished gentleman. From Piper-Heidsieck to Rare to Le Secret, Régis's impressive wine journey is defined by daring, artistry, excellence, and authenticity. Régis makes wines for people to enjoy, wines that tell a story, and wines that stand the test of time. That's truly priceless.  

Holiday Ooh La La: Six Sensational Wines from Roussillon That You Can Order Online from Snooth!

A view from Domaine La Tour Vieille in Collioure - one of the wineries featured in Snooth's Roussillon Holiday Array 6-Pack. Collioure is a picturesque town in French Catalonia on the Mediterranean coast, just north of the Spanish border. 

Take the stress out of pairing wines with your holiday meals! My friends at Snooth are offering a wonderful six-pack of wines from the Roussillon region in the south of France for a budget-friendly $100 ($200 value). I had the pleasure of visiting Roussillon last year and spent time at some of the wineries featured in this impressive selection of whites & reds. Sunny and sultry, Roussillon is nestled in southern France between Spain, the Mediterranean Sea, the Pyrenees & the Corbières Mountains. Roussillon's distinctive and high-quality wines can be attributed to the fusion of French & Catalan culture, history of winemaking spanning two thousand years, diverse micro-climates, and talented winemakers.

I don't have a wine shop of my own but if I did, I would certainly showcase wines from Roussillon. Keep reading for descriptions of the wines included in Snooth's Roussillon Holiday Array 6-Pack, along with suggested food pairings. Click here to place your order. Cheers! 




Domaine Lafage IGP Côtes Catalanes Côte Est 2016
A blend of Grenache Blanc, Chardonnay, and Roussanne from vineyards planted on Mediterranean sea-facing slopes, the three grapes commingle to produce generous citrus fruit aromas and bright acidity. Pair with Butternut Squash Gratin with Goat Cheese and Hazelnuts.

M. Chapoutier Côtes du Roussillon Les Vignes de Bila-Haut White 2016 

A blend of Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris, and Macabeu grown on limestone and clay soils, the flesh-fruit flavors are round and full. Pair with Juicy Roast Turkey.

 

Gerard Bertrand AOP Côtes du Roussillon Villages Tautavel Grand Terroir 2015

Tautavel is a village in the Roussillon region located between the Pyrenees mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. A blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan, ripe red fruit flavors are underpinned by bright brown spices. Pair with Mushroom and Parmigiano Bruschetta.

 

Mas Janeil AOP Côtes du Roussillon Villages le Petit Pas 2014  

The blend of Grenache Noir, Syrah and Carignan is deepened with a dash Mourvèdre. The fruit flavors are darkened with hints of smoke and licorice. Pair with Pepper-Crusted Flank Steak.

 

Calmel & Joseph AOP Côtes du Roussillon Villages 2013 

Schist, sandstone, and clay limestone soils draw out new characteristics from this Rhône blend. The accolades for this wine are noteworthy: it received 16.5 points from Jancis Robinson and 90 points from Robert Parker. Dried, candied and thick jammy fruits dominate the palate. Pair with Baked Ham with Cherry Pomegranate Glaze.

 

Domaine La Tour Vieille AOP Collioure Rouge La Pinede 2016   

Fermented using wild yeasts, the age of the vines (Grenache Noir, Carignan, Syrah and Mourvèdre) ranges between thirty-five and seventy years old. Black cherry dances with black olive on the palate accompanied by an undercurrent of vanilla. Pair with Holiday Pork Chops.

 

This is a sponsored post. 

Chic & Charming Chardonnay: Cave de Lugny White Burgundy

"I'm a winemaker but also a consumer. Burgundy is the best place for Chardonnay."- Grégoire Pissot, Winemaker, Cave de Lugny

Cave de Lugny winemaker Grégoire Pissot is on a mission to remind us of White Burgundy's many charms. Armed with his affable personality and expressive wines, Grégoire is winning over drinkers one bottle at a time. While Chardonnay may not be the hot new grape in town, Cave de Lugny's wines are a delicious reminder that classic doesn't mean boring or expensive. Well-crafted and affordably priced, Cave de Lugny delivers French ooh la la without breaking the bank.


image courtesy of Cave de Lugny

Founded in 1926, Cave de Lugny is a cooperative of family-owned wine-growing estates in the Mâconnais region in southern Burgundy. The #1 white Burgundy producer in the world, 90% of Cave de Lugny's production is Chardonnay; which they craft in the traditional Burgundy style -- unoaked and on the lees so that the wines are vibrant and complex. They also adhere to strict growing standards and eco-friendly practices. I recently had the pleasure of tasting two Cave de Lugny wines with Grégoire and agree with his assessment that their Chardonnay from the Mâconnais is "easy and very drinkable." But the wines still have tremendous personality and energy.


Cave de Lugny "La Côte Blanche" Chardonnay, Mâcon-Villages 2016 ($13)
Refreshing and luscious with crisp minerality, La Côte Blanche is a delightful introduction to the Cave de Lugny style. Lively flavors of lemon curd and citrus fruits are balanced out by a long dry finish. 


Cave de Lugny "Les Charmes" Chardonnay, Mâcon-Lugny 2016 ($16)
Grégoire describes Les Charmes as "the wine that best expresses Mâcon." Chardonnay grapes for this impressive wine are sourced from a single vineyard, with some vines as old as 35-40 years. Richly textured and with elegantly restrained citrus flavors that are balanced out by hints of spice and honey, Les Charmes offers plenty of finesse and nuance at a great price. 

If you're planning a trip to Burgundy, Cave de Lugny offers wine tourism opportunities. Until then, get to know Cave de Lugny Chardonnay with a bottle of La Côte Blanche or Les Charmes. Cheers! 

Sip Like a Sommelier: Yannick Benjamin is Captivated by Côtes de Bordeaux

Sommelier extraordinaire and Côtes de Bordeaux enthusiast Yannick Benjamin

Ah, Bordeaux. So famous yet still so misunderstood. Bordeaux may be best known for legendary wines with jaw-dropping prices but that isn't a complete picture of this iconic region in southwest France. A mosaic composed of almost 111,000 hectares, Bordeaux is France's largest AOC vineyard and home to 65 different appellations that produce wines in a variety of styles and prices. And one of the most buzzed about and intriguing appellations is Côtes de Bordeaux. Officially born in 2009, the Côtes de Bordeaux AOC may be the new kid on the Bordeaux block but vines have been planted there since the 2nd century. Côtes de Bordeaux consists of 5 clearly identified regions: Blaye, Cadillac, Castillon, Francs, and Sainte-Foy. 

Summertime really ignites my interest in trying new wines and I recently had the pleasure of tasting several Côtes de Bordeaux wines with sommelier Yannick Benjamin. Passionate and very knowledgable about the region, Yannick describes Côtes de Bordeaux wines as "Extremely terroir driven. They have a true sense of place." He also praises the "hands on approach" of the winemakers. For Yannick, Côtes de Bordeaux's authentically crafted wines at accessible price points make them ideal "gateway wines" for exploring Bordeaux. 

From fresh & crisp whites to fruity & earthy reds, you can sip Côtes de Bordeaux from the start to the end of a meal. True to their Bordeaux heritage, blending is a signature of the Côtes wines. Reds are mainly crafted from Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. Sauvignon is the major grape variety for the white wines, blended with Sémillon and Muscadelle. Representing each of the Côtes de Bordeaux regions, I tasted five wines with Yannick. Authentic, affordable, and crafted with finesse, Côtes wines make your Bordeaux dreams a budget-friendly reality!



Château Peybonhomme-Les-Tours, Le Blanc Bonhomme 2016
AOC Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux ($20)
A blend of Sauvignon Blanc (50%) and Semillon (50%), this refreshing and elegant white wine is from Blaye's largest certified biodynamic estate and is produced by fifth-generation brother & sister winemakers Guillaume and Rachel Hubert. Fresh and full with gorgeous flavors of honey, tropical fruit, zippy acidity, and clean minerality, this is a lovely introduction to Côtes! 

Château Suau 2015
AOC Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux 2015 ($25)
With vineyards located on the highest point of Cadillac, at an altitude of 330 feet, Château Suau began converting to organic farming in 2008. Since 2014, all vintages have been produced under the direction of famed winemaker & consultant Michel Rolland. Few red grapes can match Merlot's plush juiciness and this luscious red bolsters that softness with structure from a dash of Cabernet Sauvignon, so that the wine has finesse and not flab. Rich black fruit flavors are revved up with hints of licorice and finely knit tannins. 



Château Pitray Cabernet Franc 2015
AOC Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux ($18)
In a land of blends, this 100% Cabernet Franc stands out. Sexy and supple, there's nothing shy about this ripe and luscious red. Juicy, fruit-driven, with an engaging earthiness, this Cab Franc is the epitome of easygoing elegance. Established in the 14th century, Château Pitray is a 247-acre estate owned by the Simrad de Pitray family -- one of Bordeaux's oldest vineyard owning families. 



Château Les Charmes-Godard 2015
AOC Francs Côtes de Bordeaux ($18)
A blend of Semillon (50%), Sauvignon Gris (25%), and Sauvignon Blanc (25%); this is no boring white wine. Full-bodied and crisp with layers of flavor; from lemon and honeysuckle, to white peach and verbena. The 16-acre Les Charmes-Godard property was purchased by Nicolas Thienpont and his brothers in 1988.

Château Couronneau 2015
AOC Sainte-Foy Côtes de Bordeaux ($19)
Purchased by Christophe and Bénédicte Piat in 1994, they converted the vineyards  of the 98-acre Château Couronneau estate to organic farming in 1999 and to biodynamic in 2012. A blend of Merlot (60%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (40%), this red displays a gorgeous balance between ripe & dark fruit and savory vanilla and earthy flavors. Firm but fleshy. 

These five wines are just a small example of the diversity, quality, and affordability of Côtes de Bordeaux wines. Visit their website to learn more. Cheers! 
 

Wine About Town: Kim Crawford, Guía Peñín, Wines of Southwest France

One of the many joys of wine is getting to spend time with the people that turn grapes into drinkable art; their talent and passion inspire me everyday. New York City is always a top destination for winemakers and my hometown hosts a never-ending parade of tasting events. My Wine About Town column showcases some of the marvelous winemakers & tastemakers that I've had the pleasure of sharing a bottle with at events in NYC. 

KIM CRAWFORD


Winemaker Anthony Walkenhorst, of New Zealand's acclaimed Kim Crawford winery, was recently in NYC at Mr. White restaurant to celebrate the debut of Kim Crawford Signature Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2017($24.99).



Grapes for this superbly balanced and luscious Sauvignon Blanc are sourced from selected small lots along Marlborough's coastal plains and valleys where they ripen slowly and develop exceptional flavor. Vibrant but not aggressively zingy, this refreshing white wine elegantly balances citrusy and tropical flavors with crisp minerality.

GUÍA PEÑÍN 

Ana Lopez Lidon, export manager for Gramona Cava, poured their exceptional sparkling wines at the Guía Peñin tasting in NYC. 

Direct from Spain, the Guîa Peñin tasting has become one of NYC's most anticipated wine events.



Guía Peñín is Spain's most influential wine ratings guide. Featuring top wines from throughout Spain, the event at City Winery beautifully showcased the high quality and diversity of Spanish wines. 

Enrique Valero, managing director of Abadía Retuerta in Spain's Duero Valley. 

Standouts at the tasting included Gramona Cava's exceptional sparkling wines and Abadía Retuerta's regal reds.

WINES OF SOUTHWEST FRANCE


Sommelier André Compeyre at the Wines of Southwest France Happy Hour 
image courtesy of Lydia Lee Photography

Wines of Southwest France hosted a festive happy hour at the French Cheese Board in Soho. Sommelier André Compeyre, of Aldo Sohm Wine Bar, led guests through a tasting of wines. Selected as the 2017 Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast magazine, as I've written before, Southwest France produces an impressive array of well-made wines, at great prices, from unique local grapes like Mauzac and Prunelard, as well as international varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

It was fun to catch up with Julien Ducos, export manager for Domaine du Tariquet. 

Southwest France has no shortage of talented winemakers. To get started, I recommend wines from Domaine du Moulin, Domaine du Tariquet, Jean-Luc Baldés Clos Triguedina, and Château Montus. 

Burgundy Bliss: 2016 Is a Beautiful Vintage for Bouchard Pére & Fils

Like a birthday, a vintage commemorates the year grapes were harvested and transformed into wine. Some vintages present challenges, often caused by weather, that make the winemaker's job more difficult and impede the wine's ability to achieve its best and truest expression. (Who among us hasn't had a bad year and prayed for the next to be better?) But when Mother Nature cooperates and provides the ideal conditions, what a glorious thing for a winemaker! 2016 was such a year for Bouchard Pére & Fils cellar master Frédéric Weber. 

Frédéric Weber, Cellar Master, Bouchard Pére & Fils

"2016 is a very beautiful vintage, allowing to fully express each terroir, with very good concentration (thanks to lower yields) and excellent acidity," says Frédéric. "In terms of quality we are pretty confident, the reds show a great definition of red fruits, they are expressive on the nose, and on the palate they are round and elegant." Regarding the white wines, he says "The 2016 whites are promising with great freshness, citrus flavors, they are generous on the palate due to maturity but with chiseled finish."


I recently had the pleasure of tasting through the 2016 vintage with Frédéric and share his enthusiasm. The wines impressed me with their elegance, expressiveness, and consistency. Not surprising -- founded in 1731, Bouchard Pére & Fils is one of the oldest wine merchant houses in Burgundy and one of the largest landowners in the prestigious Côte d'Or. Their acclaimed parcels total 321acres with 30 classified as Grand Crus and 183 as Premiers Crus. Committed to preserving the integrity of their land, Bouchard Pére & Fils has been devoted to organic and sustainable practices since 2000. 

image courtesy of Bouchard Pére & Fils

Recently, I wrote about Burgundy's intimidation factor -- one could spend a lifetime trying to unravel the complexities of this prestigious and celebrated wine region. (I even made a case for using the proper French name, Bourgogne, instead of the anglicized Burgundy, but's that's certainly not a hard and fast rule.) But becoming a total wine geek isn't a requirement to enjoy Burgundy. Let the wines take you on a journey to these legendary French vineyards and experience for yourself why Burgundy is universally lauded for its exceptional ability to transmit the essence of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and terroir. The diverse portfolio and consistent quality of Bouchard Pére & Fils make them a great gateway to exploring the wines of Burgundy.  

One grape with endless expressions, Pinot Noir is the grand diva of red Burgundy. Bouchard Pére & Fils has an extensive portfolio that showcases the various styles and nuances of Pinot Noir. Here are a few of my favorites.  


Bouchard Pére & Fils, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Village Côte de Nuits 2016 ($65) shimmys across the palate with elegant oomph. A kiss of spice and long finish enhance its energy and grace. Hailing from Burgundy's most southernly appellation, its solid structure and tannins provide the foundation for aging but it is very enjoyable now. 


Bouchard Pére & Fils, Gevrey-Chambertin, Village Côte de Nuits 2016 ($65) is from the heart of the Côte de Nuits - the area with the highest concentration of Grand Crus reds. Hearty and velvety with hints of fresh cherry, roses, and an engaging earthiness. 


The rich and pleasingly plummy flavors of Bouchard Pére & Fils, Pommard, Premier Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($90) show the influence of its chalky & iron-rich soils. 



Bouchard Pére & Fils, Beaune Gréves Vigne de l'Enfant Jésus, Premier Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($130) has quite an intriguing backstory. The name translates to "Vine of the Baby Jesus" and pays homage to an old story that a Carmelite nun predicted the birth of Louis XIV, in spite of his mother's sterility. Upon the birth of the future king, this special vineyard, measuring 9.68 acres in the heart of the Beaune Grèves appellation, was given to the Carmelites as an expression of gratitude. Bouchard Pére & Fils has had exclusive rights to this vineyard since 1791. Intense but delicate, this wine shows a beautiful interplay between fruit, spice, and earthy flavors. 

Bouchard Pére & Fils, Le Corton, Grand Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($150) hails from the historic Le Corton vineyard that gave the Corton appellation its name. The only Grand Cru (the very top of the Burgundy classification system) on the Côte de Beaune, this wine dazzles with it suppleness, strength, and regal structure. 

 The whites of Burgundy are ruled by Chardonnay. Yes, Chardonnay may be ubiquitous but it is Burgundy that set the standard for still & dry Chardonnay wines. The Bouchard Pére & Fils roster of Chardonnay shows the grape's capacity to convey a range of expressions. 



Luscious with zippy acidity, Bouchard Pére & Fils, Meursault Les Clous, Village Côte de Beaune 2016 ($65) delivers plenty of wow at a great price for such a beautifully crafted wine. 

The Chardonnay grapes for Bouchard Pére & Fils, Beaune Clos Saint-Landry, Premier Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($75) come from a small vineyard with the oldest traces of the Chardonnay variety in Beaune. There's something quite spicy and sexy about this special wine. 



If you've ever wondered what makes Grand Cru White Burgundy so special, Bouchard Pére & Fils, Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Côte de Beaune 2016 ($210) beautifully answers the question. Indulgent, elegant, robust, and vivacious - absolute ooh la la! 

To learn more about the wines of Bouchard Pére and Fils, visit their website. 

The Lighter Side of Bordeaux: White Wines With Style & Substance

The Wonder Women of Bordeaux - Valérie Vialard (Château Latour Martillac), Valérie Lavigne (University of Bordeaux, Institute of Vine and Sciences), Corinne Comme (Château du Champ des Treilles), and Cécile Ha (Wines of Bordeaux). 

Winemaking isn't for the weak. From the vine to the cellar; authentic winemaking demands patience, intuition, innovation, and a multitude of strengths. A group of women winemakers from Bordeaux have proven themselves in possession of all these traits, and more, as they challenge the notion that wines from Bordeaux are overpriced, old-fashioned, and always red. While hoity-toity wines remain an important part of Bordeaux's identity, the region isn't stuck in a time warp. Bordeaux is also home to modern and accessibly priced wines and I was reminded by these dynamic winemakers that its fantastic dry white wines should not be overlooked.

Located in Southwest France along the Atlantic coast, Bordeaux produces all styles of wine and dry whites represent about 9% of the total production - almost 58 million bottles. Although single varietal offerings of Sauvignon Blanc have become increasingly popular, Bordeaux whites are usually blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon; small amounts of Muscadelle sometimes play a supporting role.


Sauvignon Blanc grapes
image courtesy of Vins de Bordeaux

Native to the region, Sauvignon Blanc is often the main grape in dry white Bordeaux blends and brings freshness, high acidity, and vibrant aromas of grapefruit, lemon, tropical fruits, herbs, and grass. Sémillon balances out Sauvignon Blanc's zest with texture, roundness, aging potential and beguiling aromas of apricot and honey. Muscadelle is rarely more than 10% of the blend but just a small amount can enhance the wine with aromatic complexity. 

The warmer weather is the perfect season to explore crisp, aromatic, and refreshing dry white wines from Bordeaux. The wines may incorporate the same grapes in their blend but each winemaker does so in unique combinations that best express their vision and terroir. From fresh and fruity to more structured and mineral-driven wines, there really is a white Bordeaux for every palate, meal, and occasion. Start your exploration of Bordeaux whites with one of these six sensational wines.  



Château du Champ des Treilles Vin Passion 2016 ($15) is an impressive wine at an incredibly accessible price. A blend of essentially equal parts of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle; this nuanced white wine beautifully expresses the character of its 68-year-old vines and limestone & clay soils. 

I had the pleasure of tasting this lovely white Bordeaux with winemaker Corinne Comme. In 1997, Corinne and her husband Jean-Michel took over the familial vineyards from his grandfather and they opted to put their belief in biodynamics to practice. In addition to her work as a viticulturist, Corrine travels the world consulting estates on their conversions to biodynamic winemaking.  

Château Peybonhomme-Les-Tours 2016 ($24)
A balanced and expressive blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes that were farmed on the largest certified biodynamic estate in Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux. Full-bodied with impressive minerality and freshness. 



Cháteau Latour Martillac 2015 ($36)
Creamy, smooth, and a little smoky - a very nuanced and sensual blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. 



Château Roquefort 2016 ($13)
This vivacious wine is mostly Sauvignon Blanc with a dash of Sémillon. Luscious and full with juicy tropical fruit flavors and perky acidity. 



Clos des Lunes Lune Blanche 2015 ($18)
Normally second fiddle, Sémillon (70%) has the starring role in this blend and Sauvignon Blanc plays an important supporting role at 30%. Crafted from grapes  grown in a vineyard located in the Sauternes region, which is renowned for Bordeaux's legendary sweet wines, this dry white wine impressively balances the line between complexity and easy drinkability. Fresh, mineral, and juicy with a satisfying and sassy tinge of salinity. 



Dourthe La Grande Cuvée Sauvignon Blanc 2016 ($13)
If you want to sip Sauvignon Blanc in all its splendor, this elegant wine shows off the pristine beauty of the grape from diverse terroirs across the Bordeaux appellation. Full and fresh, seductively aromatic with crispy minerality and refreshing acidity. An elegant and unique expression of Sauvignon Blanc. 

To learn more about dry white wines from Bordeaux, visit the Wines of Bordeaux website.