It is always a good time to have a glass of champagne, but when this bright bubbly elixir becomes a masterpiece, it is well worth saving it for a special occasion.
The Armand de Brignac Brut Gold, the Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill and the Chartogne-Taillet Fiacre are unmatched creations for a unique opportunity, worthy of kings.
Armand de Brignac Brut Gold
WINERY: Cattier // GRAPE TYPE: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier // D.O. Champagne
In the small village of Chigny les Roses in Champagne, the Cattiers family owns vineyards that have been cultivated since 1763. Their Armand de Brignac Brut Gold is complex and full-bodied with fresh aromas that come alive with slightly floral notes. On the palate, the sumptuous floral character is well noticed, and its texture is deliciously creamy, with great depth and a lingering, silky finish. The unmistakable bottle of Armand de Brignac Brut, designed by the French couturier André Courrèges, is adorned with gilded pewter. Each bottle is packaged in a beautiful black wooden box, lined with black velvet, decorated with beautiful reliefs and an engraved plaque.
Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill
WINERY: Pol Roger // GRAPE TYPE: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir // D.O. Champagne
The Pol Roger Champagne house, founded in 1849, is a member of the Primum Familiae Vini and has the Royal Warrant as supplier of champagne to Queen Elizabeth II of England. About this exquisite champagne, Sir Winston Churchill used to say, “In victory I deserve it, and in defeat I need it.” Since that day in 1908—when he drank his first glass of Pol Roger— the famous statesman was so seduced that he remained faithful to this brand. In 1975, to commemorate the tenth anniversary of his death, Pol Roger honored him with the Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill, using as reference the attributes most appreciated by the British politician in champagne: robustness, bulk and maturity. True to its vintage character, close to the nose it exhibits an elegant floral bouquet and notes of dried fruit, finishing with a complex touch of spicy caramel and vanilla. In the palate, it is full, rich and distinguished. Thanks to its delicate sweet flavors and aromas, its finish is durable and recognizable: definitely a captivating champagne.
Chartogne-Taillet Fiacre NV
WINERY: Chartogne-Taillet // GRAPE TYPE: chardonnay, pinot noir // D.O. Champagne
Since 1683, the Chartogne-Taillet family produces champagnes in Merfy, 5 miles from Reims. Merfy wines have been exported to royal households since the 12th century. The Chartogne-Taillet Fiacre NV is ubiquitous in the lists of the ten best champagnes in the world. It is complex, with aromas of ripe apricots, green plum and grapefruit flavors mixed with a creamy texture and a mild acidity. Its finish is reminiscent of lychees, with a final toasted hint of the oak barrels that housed such magnificent champagne. ■