Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Grands Crus Blanc de Blancs 2011, Reims, France

A Comtes de Champagne is rare. The criteria chosen for its production eliminates the possibility for a large-scale yield. Since its first cuvee in 1952, 30 vintages have seen the light of day. The most absolute expression of the style of the House, the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs is always a vintage cuvee. Made from 100% Chardonnay with grapes from the finest crus of the prestigious Cote des Blancs, this cuvee is made only with juice from the first pressing. A small proportion of the blend (5%) is aged in new oak casks, which lends nuance to the harmony of its delicate toasted notes. With these great Chardonnays from its lands, Taittinger knows to be patient; the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs waits in the chalk mines of Saint-Nicaise for 10 years before seeing the light of day and overjoying the palates of consumers. Elegant pale yellow color. Fine light bubbles rise steadily to form a delicate ring of foam. The nose initially presents fresh, refined tangerine-like fruit, and then develops mature notes of ripe fruit, raisin pastries and candied fruit. On the palate, the attack is both smooth and lively. The mid-palate is supple, full-bodied and rich, with flavors of grapefruit. The finish is still very long and refined with a hint of spice, reminiscent of licorice sticks. This great 2007 vintage lives up to all expectations as soon as you open the bottle. It is a moment to treasure.That typical Chardonnay color is there in all its sparkling, golden glory with shimmers of green coating the constant stream of fine, delicate bubbles. It has a fine and delicate nose which combines white blossom and a certain minerality with general overtones of Anjou light pear and golden raisins. Subtle hints of aniseed and smoky flavours follow this suggestion of fruit. The taste is vibrant, with a combination of lemon and saltiness.This is immediately followed by a sensation of complex, yet mellow freshness creating the perfect balance between ripeness and a full-rounded flavour. It is rounded off by a long-lasting, crisp finish with hints of salted butter.This elegant wine lives up to its reputation with its freshness, strength, minerality and mellow fruitiness. Its freshness encapsulates a certain moment in time and promises interesting cellaring potential.