Last month, while doing a blind tasting with 6 different sparkling wines, I was introduced to 2 spectacular Champagnes from an Importer named Terry Thiese. Terry has been instrumental in finding and promoting these incredible wines. Instead of growing grapes and selling them off to a major producer, these "growers" have taken to actually vinifying the wines and selling them under their own labels. The results of this movements are some fabulous champagnes with true character, top quality, great displays of terroir, and reasonable prices. Beware though, just because it's a grower champagne doesn't mean it will be of high caliber. It is sensible to look for those from importer such as Terry Thiese, Neal Rosenthal or any of the other reputable wine import companies.
The 2 champagnes I was most excited about were the following:
Pierre Peters Cuvee de Reserve Blanc de Blanc Brut NV $55.99 (100% Chardonnay) This wine was as beautiful on the palate as it was on the nose. In my tasting notes I wrote "unbaked apple pie", indicating that the apple aromas were more vibrant than a cooked apple. On the palate this wine showed great minerality, green apple flavors, and a crisp citrus note. Highly recommended.
A. Margaine "Cuvée Traditionelle” Brut, N.V $44.99 (90% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Noir) This was my winner of the night, hands down. The finish was incredibly long and it had an incredibly supple texture. The nose was highlighted by lemon zest, brioche, and white flower. The price is incredible! Loads of elegance at a more than reasonable cost. Highly recommended.
Don't wait until New Years to enjoy one of these wines!
Champagne is the name of the world’s most famous dazzling wine. We also know and love comes exclusively from the Champagne region of France, and claims the honor of being the most famous of the sparkling wines.
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