Push The Limits With Desparada Amphora Sauvignon Blanc
ᴘʟᴇᴀꜱᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇᴇᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ʜᴏᴘᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ɢᴜᴇꜱꜱ ᴍʏ ɴᴀᴍᴇ – ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏʟʟɪɴɢ ꜱᴛᴏɴᴇꜱ Sip into a unique experience as the uber talented #winemaker Vailia From pushes the boundaries of what Sauvignon Blanc can be. A Central Coast white made from100% Sauvignon Blanc, fermented and aged in amphora for 4 months. ᴅᴇꜱᴘᴀʀᴀᴅᴀ ᴀᴍᴘʜᴏʀᴀ ꜱᴀᴜᴠɪɢɴᴏɴ ʙʟᴀɴᴄ 2022 ᴄᴇɴᴛʀᴀʟ ᴄᴏᴀꜱᴛ ᴀᴠᴀ, ᴄᴀʟɪꜰᴏʀɴɪᴀ Pours into the glass a captivating pale golden hue, reminiscent of sunlight filtering through a freshly cut lemon. First swirl reveals a flurry of Meyer lemon, grapefruit, and lime intertwine with hints of melon, apricot, honeysuckle, pineapple and mango, creating a lively and refreshing bouquet. Subtle hints of ginger, turmeric and wild oregano add complexity, while a touch of minerality rounds out the aromatic profile. The initial surprise is the texture. The amphora imparts a creamy richness enveloped with wonder of what’s to come. The first sip delivers a kaleidoscope of refreshing citrus flavors, with lime, tangerine and candied grapefruit taking the lead. A wave of tropical fruit follows, with mango, guava, and passionfruit dancing on the tongue with a subtle saline seabreeze. The acidity is pleasant and playful – a zesty sprite cutting through the richness of the fruit flavors and leaving a lingering freshness. Subtle hints of ginger and white pepper add depth and length to the lingering finish, while a touch of minerality lends structure and elegance. A testament to the winemaker’s skill in crafting a Sauvignon Blanc that is both vibrant and complex. It’s bold, complex and utterly captivating. Paired with chimichurri shrimp, grilled chicken and mango cilantro salsa and a lemon orzo salad.
Winter Warming Bandol
ᴡɪɴᴛᴇʀ ᴡᴀʀᴍɪɴɢ ᴡɪɴᴇ ᴡᴇᴅɴᴇꜱᴅᴀʏ a Bandol red that definitely fits into this category. Tune in to our chat about this wine and winemaker: Live Chat Domaine Les Luquettes Bandol is quintessential mediterranean and the ideal playground for thick skinned grapes such as Mouvèdre. An important and highly regarded AOC in Provence producing top quality red and rosé wines. It boasts 2,800 hours of sunshine which bounces off of land and sea aiding in ripening the grapes to perfection. The northern Mistral winds sweep in from the Rhône which cools down temperatures and heat induced to the vine as well as reduces risk of rot and final disease and slows down the grapes from over-ripening. The soils are a combination of limestone, schist and resiny plants such as wild thyme, rosemary and lavender all contribute to the regions distinctive character. Mouvèdre is a reductive grape that can have a farm barnyard aroma to it. It’s menacingly distinctive in a powerful bold way. It however partners very well with the lush fruit and fatty energy of Grenache which tones down its flexing muscles. Domaine Les Luquettes Bandol Rouge 2019 Sophie Cachard, a #vigneronne to watch with over two centuries of chemical free, low intervention organic winemaking at the family domaine. She continues the family’s heritage of chemical free, organic & biodynamic farming as well as massale selection of their 80+year old vines in Bandol, France, home to top quality regional red and rosé wines. Both her cellar and press were built in 1852; Sophie continues to make wine in the cellar surrounded by history and family vibes. A blend of 80% Mourvèdre & 20% Grenache from 80+ year old vines planted by Sophie Cachard’s grandfather. A long macération is followed by 22 months of ageing in a combination of barriques, demi-muid and foudre. ▪️Pours into the glass a glistening crimson hue with garnet hues bristling with energy. The nose is complex and expressive, with aromas of black cherries, sun-warmed plums, raspberries, cassis, blackberry, tart cranberry, fresh tobacco with earthy underlayers of crushed gravel, wild garrigue, black tea, vanilla, toasted almond and leather. ▪️The first is surprisingly light-footed, with fine-grained tannins that caress the tongue rather than grip. The fruit explodes in a vibrant dance interplayed with the lively acidity. The mid-palate flexes its muscles, with savory notes of black pepper, earth, cured meat and leather weaving through the fruit. The wine lingers long and gracefully, leaving a warm memory of black peppery, anise & savory garrigue. ▪️It’s deep and wild with so many sinuous layers. Just a stunning marvel Sophie’s carefully crafted winemaking of the Bandol’s sundrenched elegance and expressive vivacity. A wine that could easily chill for another 10 years. Pair with a classic cassoulet, lamb and rosemary stew or a warming lentil vegetable soup.
A Dance of Aromas & Flavors – Ponzi Vineyards
ꜱᴜᴘᴇʀᴄᴀʟɪꜰʀᴀɢɪʟɪꜱᴛɪᴄᴇxᴘɪᴀʟɪᴅᴏᴄɪᴏᴜꜱ (meaning extraordinarily good thanks to Mary Poppins 😉) yes my friends we are in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Located in the heart of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Ponzi Vineyards is a founding winery that has been crafting world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay for over 50 years. Established in 1970 by Dick and Nancy Ponzi, the winery has played a pivotal role in putting the Willamette Valley on the map as a renowned wine region. Ponzi’s wines are known for their elegance, complexity, and balance, and are produced using low-intervention methods that showcase the unique terroir of the Laurelwood District AVA. Today, Ponzi Vineyards is led by Luisa Ponzi, the daughter of the founders, who continues to carry on the family’s legacy of winemaking excellence. Ponzi Vineyards Laurelwood District Pinot Noir 2021 ▪️Pours into the glass reveals a captivating medium ruby hue, shimmering with garnet edges. As the wine swirls, the first whiff is an intoxicating swirl of berries along with spice, mushrooms and dried leaves. Black peppercorn tingles the nose, followed by the warmth of nutmeg and a whisper of mesquite smoke with delicate floral notes of lavender and dried rose petal. ▪️The first sip explodes with vibrant fruit – luscious blueberry burst forth, followed by a sweet-tart cranberry rhubarb and juicy black cherry cola symphony. But this is no one-dimensional fruit bomb, no sir. Earthiness emerges, with hints of forest floor and damp moss. Vanilla and milk chocolate sweetness arrive. Spice takes center stage again, with a dusting of cinnamon and a whisper of clove, weaving beautifully with the fruit. ▪️The texture is pure velvet, with fine-grained tannins that gently caress the tongue. Acidity plays a lively role, keeping the palate refreshed and the flavors dancing. It’s a wine that lingers long after the last sip, leaving behind a memory of every layer it’s complex elegant personality. This is a wine to savor slowly, to contemplate its every layer, and to appreciate the dedication and skill poured into each bottle. This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Roasted duck breast with cherry sauce, grilled salmon with herb crust, a mature Comte.
J.J. Prüm Delight of a Riesling
Joh. Jos. Prüm is a renowned family owned winery based in Bernkastel-Wehlen, Mosel, Germany, specializing in Riesling wines. Founded in 1911, the estate has a long and prestigious history dating back to 1156. The winery emphasizes expressing the unique characteristics of each vineyard in their wines. They primarily use indigenous yeast for fermentation and prioritize natural winemaking techniques. J.J. Prum Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Kabinett 2020 Pours into the glass a clear and bright watery lemon with hints of green. The delicate bouquet with very fine slate aromas along with white and yellow peach, nectarine and apricot. Underlying elderflower appeal along with signature minerality. and very fine but fully ripe and even concentrated apricot aromas. Crystal clear and crystalline on the palate, with a concentrated, even slightly jammy apricot fruit core but a firm yet filigreed structure, this is an intense, very elegant and savory, irresistible Kabinett with a serious mineral structure and stimulating grip on the finish. Superb. 8.5% stated alcohol. Brimming with fresh citrus, stone fruit,. honey and salty minerals. Very delicate and gentle, long finish on a white pepper ginger hum. Its a very juicy, racy, and precise Riesling. Paired with asian dumplings and moroccan carrot salad. Heaven.
Ascending With Champagne Mouzon
𝔸𝕤𝕔𝕖𝕟𝕕𝕒𝕟𝕥: ℚ𝕦𝕚 𝕧𝕒 𝕖𝕟 𝕞𝕠𝕟𝕥𝕒𝕟𝕥, 𝕖𝕟 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕘𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕒𝕟𝕥 /𝕆𝕟𝕖 𝕞𝕠𝕧𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕦𝕡𝕨𝕒𝕣𝕕𝕤, 𝕣𝕚𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘 – 𝕊é𝕓𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕚𝕖𝕟 𝕄𝕠𝕦𝕫𝕠𝕟 L’Ascendant Solera Extra Brut NV- Champagne Mouzon Leroux A grower champagne producer to watch who’s pushing the boundaries of terroir driven champagnes in Verzy, Montagne de Reims. Sebastien Mouzon is a 9th generation winemaker certified organic and Demeter biodynamic viticulture of his 7 hectares (50 plots) of which 60% are Pinot Noir, 36% Chardonnay and 4% Arbanne, Petet Meslier, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris. Horses are used for ploughing and sheep are used to control the cover crops. He preharvests 20 berries from each vine to create a pied de cuve (like a sourdough starter) which will inoculate the different tanks with the indigenous yeasts. Winemakers prefer this technique to use wild yeast from the vineyard to ferment their wines. The process aims to build a population of viable (alive yeast) and vital (strong) in the wild yeast culture in a small volume of wine. He uses a mix of steel tanks and 500-liter, 4 to 5-year-old Jadot barrels for fermentation. The wines aren’t filtered, and the amount of sulfur used at the estate is very low. Sébastien feels, as many growers do, that a period of aging after disgorgement is necessary. None of the wines are released before they have rested on the cork after disgorgement for at least 6 months. Sébastien now belongs to the Club Trésors and later this year his first Spécial Club, 2012, will be released. This is a very unique solara blend of 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay with an assemblage of 50% 2017 with 50% l’Atavique 2014-2016 and fermented in neutral oak barrels, followed by 44 months on the lees, disgorged January 2022 Dosage: 1.5 g/l The mystery of solera provides a wide depth and focused champagne. Pours into the glass shimmers with a pale gold hue with dancing effervescence. The nose awakens with a vibrant mélange of aromas from orange peel, citrus oil, crisp green orchard fruit to graham crackers, baked bread, damp forest floor, nougat, ginger and creamy walnuts. The first sip is an explosion of freshness and energy driven by its fine persistent bubbles. The core of citrus, yellow plum, pear and apple lead the way for the savory minerality followed by hints of salted buttery caramel, dried strawberries, straw, figs, brioche, ginger, roasted nuts echo its complexity. It has a remarkable texture, creamy balanced with its low dosage. The racy acidity carries it all along in to a soul satisfying long finish. If you can wait a handful of minutes you’ll be rewarded with coffee and mocha on the finish. Paired with a glorious roast chicken. That’s all that was needed.
Edgey Elegance With A Velvet Power from Domaine Des Peirecèdes
A continuation from our #womencrushingit #winewednesday Live Chat with @Iola Wines: Domaine Des Peirecèdes Two #womendowine sisters Audrey and Leslie Baccino run the sixth generation family winery founded in 1900. Audrey Baccino the enologist and winemaker by day, egg farmer by night. Farmed sustainably, hand harvesting, low intervention and certified organic. The Domaine Des Peirecèdes vineyards are located in two distinct areas: one between Pierrefeu and Cuers, at the foot of the Maures massif, and the other on the slopes overlooking the Mediterranean Sea between Carqueiranne and La Moutonne. This lovely wine comes from the Pierrefeu DGC which benefits from the long Mediterranean sunshine and breezes, cooling Mistral wines from the Rhône allowing for the grapes to ripen successfully while retaining its refreshing acidity. Mouvedre is also known as Monastrell or Mataro in Spain. Mouvedre is a deep, smoky, dark, brooding type of grape. It’s small berried thick skins need a lot of sunshine to ripen.Known for its big structure and high spectrum tannins. Usually its found in the south of France or in Rhône blends (GSM). By blending this grape typically with Syrah or Grenache, it will soften the bolder side such as this wine. This blend is 70% Mouvedre & 30% Cabernet Sauvignon , which isn’t normally blended with Mouvedre in this region. A long maceration followed by 12 months ageing in French fût de chêne (400L barrels). The Domaine Des Peircèdes Cuvée Regue Des Botes Rouge 2019 is a wine that evokes the sun-drenched hills and windswept vineyards of Provence. Pours into the glass a deep, garnet hue with flashes of ruby. A complex bouquet unfolds, initially bursting with ripe red fruits like cherry, plum, raspberry plus blueberry, blackberry. Deeper notes of licorice, spice, and earthy undertones emerge, hinting at the wine’s time spent in oak barrels. Savory garrigue, the aromatic herbs of the Provençal landscape, as well lavender and black olives add a touch of wildness. ▪️The wine fills the mouth with its velvety texture and generous body. The ripe fruit flavors dance on the tongue, balanced by a subtle acidity that keeps the palate refreshed. Tannins are present but well-integrated with the 14.5% abv, adding structure and complexity without being harsh. The fruit and spice notes harmonize beautifully, leaving a warm and satisfying memory of the wine. A long, lingering finish leaves you wanting more. Imagine the fresh fruit accompanied by savory leather, cedar, roasted meat, cocoa powder and tar into a lengthy black pepper, mint and anise finish. Both grapes come together so harmoniously, one complimenting the other in just the right way. A testament to the care that went into this wine. It’s a rustic, rough and ready type of wine. It has an edgey elegance wearing a powerful velvet cloak. Pair with an aged cheddar, dark chocolate hummus, lentils and roasted vegetables, an herb roasted leg of lamb, Montreal smoked meat or classic company pot roast.
The 5 Senses of Champagne Olivier Horiot
A journey of the five elements through soulful champagne artistry of Olivier Horiot. In many spiritual and religious traditions, the number “5” symbolizes balance, harmony, and the five elements (earth, air, fire, water, and spirit). This is Olivier and his wife Marie’s interpretation of the number 5 his “5 Sens Brut Nature” Olivier Horiot Champagne is a seven generation #growerproducer champagne located in the village of Ricey-sur-Armançon, Côte des Bar with Kimmeridgian limestone soils similar to those found in Chablis and Sancerre, which contribute to the wines’ distinctive character except Pinot Noir is the supreme ruler in this region. Olivier Horiot took over the estate from his father Serge in 1999 and immediately converted it to organic and biodynamic farming practices. He works with seven grape varieties, including the three Champagne classics (Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Meunier) as well the lesser utilized Arbane, Petit Meslier, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris. They vinify 2 hectares for their champagnes and sell the remaining grapes to cooperatives and négociants. Horiot prefers to ferment his base wines in a combination of used oak barrels and stainless steel tanks and no malolactic fermentation. The dosage is kept as low as possible, or even omitted. He favors long lees ageing to develop the complexity of his champagnes. Olivier and Marie’s champagnes tell a story – this one in particular a story of the number 5 – 5 grape varieties, 5 terroirs, 5 barrels blended together, 5 years sur lie and the intertwining of nature’s 5 elements. 5 grapes : equal amounts of Arbane, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay 5 Terroirs : a blending of 5 different parcels des Riceys 5 Fûts: Each variety is vinified separately in oak barrels on the lees for about a year, blended and then aged in bottle for 5 years on the lees 5 Elements: encompass the five elements as Water, Air, Earth, Fire and Spirit. Date Bottled: 23/08/2017 Disgorged: 22/06/2022 Olivier Horiot Champagne Brut Nature 5 Sens 2016 Pours into the glass a pale gold with shimmering, persistent bubbles. A crown of fine mousse sits delicately atop the surface, hinting at the meticulous craftsmanship within. An initial surge of vibrant citrus awakens the senses – lemon zest, grapefruit, and a whisper of yuzu dance in the air. As the wine breathes, deeper layers emerge – warm brioche, toasted almonds and honeyed orchard fruits mingle with a pronounced minerality, reminiscent of wet chalk and crushed seashells. A touch of ginger and white pepper add an intriguing touch of spice. The attack is refreshingly crisp, driven by a vibrant acidity that cuts through the rich, creamy texture. The mid-palate unfolds with an intricate tapestry of flavors – ripe white peach, Granny Smith apple, and a touch of quince mingle with the nutty nuances of brioche and hazelnut. The minerality intensifies on the palate, adding a refreshing salinity that keeps the sip lively. The bubbles are fine and persistent, creating a delicate mousse that caresses the tongue. Lengthy elegance on the finish with a crescendo of citrus and a lingering minerality that dances on the palate. A hazelnut and subtle kick of bitter grapefruit pith. Make it stand out A truly special champagne that envelopes the five senses with its seduction and intrigue. I am so happy to have snagged one of the very small release of 1,320 bottles & 86 magnums of this edition. Paired with laughter, family and bubbly holiday vibes.
A Crisp Chablis To Start 2024
A crisp start to the wine tasting year with a #chablis from @chablismosnier hit with loads of that nervy tension. A follow up to the always engaging #live #winechat with @iola.wines Live Wine Tasting January 3, 2024 ▫️Domaine Mosnier is a family-run winery with a long history of producing quality Chablis. Stephanie Mosnier took over the family winery in 2007 and priority number one was the reduce any sort of chemical/pesticide etc is make it as natural as possible. They adhere to HVE certified & #sustainable viticulture of the infamous Kimmeridgian and marl soils, including hand-harvesting and ambient yeasts for fermentation in oak barrels. Domaine Mosnier Chablis 2020 ▫️ The wine pours a pale gold color with hints of green. A swirl releases a bouquet of aromas that immediately transport you to the Chablis countryside. Crisp green apple, pear and lime mingle with wet stones, crushed shells, chalk, and a touch lime blossom and honeysuckle. There’s a subtle hint of yuzu adding a refreshing edge. The first sip is a shining star full of brightness. A medium bodied wine with a vervey acidity that dances on the tongue. The minerality takes center stage, a symphony of wet stones, and crushed seashells. But it’s not harsh or austere; it’s beautifully balanced by the juicy orchard fruit flavors of ripe apple, pear, and a hint of quince. A thread of citrus zest and honeycomb carry into the Brie cheese rind & saline mineral finish with a hint of white pepper and of almond that adds depth and intrigue. A well made, clean and classic Chablis that will please any palate. ▫️Drink on its own as an apéritif or with a classic pairing of oysters, shrimp risotto, or linguine with clam sauce. #winefood #winefoodpairing #winetasting #winewriter
Unveiling the Rich History and Sophistication of Bordeaux
Bordeaux boasts a prestigious winemaking legacy, with roots that extend far beyond Roman times. This region has consistently captivated consumers with its exceptional wines, and its fame skyrocketed after the marriage of King Henry II of England to Eleanor of Aquitaine. The British royal family’s fervent love for Bordeaux wines fueled immense demand, which enterprising Dutch merchants struggled to meet with their biannual shipments to the UK. The access of the Gironde Estuary and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provided vital water waterways, water sources and a moderating influence on the climate. This maritime influence fostered conditions perfect for grape growing. In the 17th century, a pivotal shift occurred. The Dutch, seeking to streamline wine transportation and establish new routes, ingeniously drained marshes, uncovering fertile land. This land, remarkably rich in gravel soils, marked the birth of the famed Left Bank. This created the Right and Left Banks of Bordeaux. The Right Bank sits northeast of the Dordogne River, which separates it from the Left Bank. It is known for primarily Merlot, often blended with Cabernet Franc, and sometimes with Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. The vines are grown in clay, limestone and gravel soils which Merlot thrives in. More on Merlot and the Right Bank in a future post. The Left Bank (Rive Gauche) is the undisputed kingdom of Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape that thrives in these specific conditions. Cabernet Sauvignon, a natural offspring of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is characterized by small, thick-skinned berries susceptible to fungal diseases. Successful ripening hinges on ample warmth, sunshine, and, crucially, well-drained soils. The gravel soils of the Left Bank deliver on all these counts, providing drainage, retaining heat, and reflecting sunlight onto the vines, creating ideal conditions for this noble grape to reach its full potential. Left Bank wines, typically high in tannins and acidity, are known for their intense black fruit flavors (blackberry, blackcurrant, black cherry), along with notes of cedar, cigar box, graphite, and mint. These wines are often described as having a strong “sense of place,” exhibiting a linear structure on the palate with a clear direction and purpose. They possess remarkable aging potential and benefit greatly from oak aging, which softens tannins and anthocyanins. In 1855, at the World’s Fair in Paris, Napoleon III sought to showcase the exceptional quality of Bordeaux wines. To educate consumers and promote these wines, a classification system was established. This system, encompassing five tiers or “growths” for the Médoc and Graves appellations, classified chateaux (estates) themselves, not individual wines. Remarkably, this system persists today, with only one modification made in 1973. The enduring relevance of this classification system over 170 years is a testament to the enduring quality of Bordeaux wines. Bordeaux’s business structure also reflects a long-standing tradition dating back to the 16th century. As demand surged, winemakers found themselves increasingly occupied with the production side, distancing themselves from the business aspects. They entrusted sales and distribution to brokers, allowing them to focus solely on crafting exceptional wines. Merchants, also known as négociants, handled logistics and transportation, ensuring that these prized wines reached discerning consumers worldwide. Notably, chateaux traditionally did not have direct contact with their customers. Following the classified growths is a category called Cru Bourgeois, where individual wines are rigorously tested for quality standards on an annual basis. This stands in contrast to the 1855 Classification, which remains static. We then move to broader area designations: AOC Bordeaux Supérieur and the overarching AOP Bordeaux. From the ingenious innovations of the Dutch to the enduring classification system, Bordeaux’s story is intertwined with its unwavering dedication to quality. Understanding this rich heritage allows us to appreciate the exceptional character and enduring appeal of these remarkable wines. To be continued to the Right Bank (Rive Droite) Photo courtesy of La Tonnellerie Nadalié
Champagne Le Gallais – A Complex Tapestry
Champagne Le Gallais is a 5 generation family-owned artisanal winery located in the village of Boursault in the Marne Valley of France. I had the utmost pleasure of meeting Charlotte, another #champagne #bubblybadass earlier this year at #wineparis and tasted her exquisite cuvées. She continues the #growerproducer commitment sustainable farming their 7 hectares (which are comprised of 7 plots in 1 family Clos), of limestone flecked with clay, through biodiversity free of chemicals. . The plots are made up of equal 45% Meunier and Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay. This particular cuvée comes from a parcel of vines shy of a hillside castle formerly belonged to Madame Clicquot. A blend of 50% Meunier (we are in the Vallée de la Marne after all), 35% Pinot Noir and 15% Chardonnay, with 70% reserve wine!) and aged for 5 years sur lie. 𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓶𝓹𝓪𝓰𝓷𝓮 𝓛𝓮 𝓖𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓪𝓲𝓼 𝓒𝓾𝓿é𝓮 𝓓𝓮𝓼 𝓒è𝓭𝓻𝓮𝓼 𝓑𝓻𝓾𝓽 𝓝𝓪𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓮 Pours into the glass a golden flecked bubble with fine, persistent bubbles that sizzle with electricity. The aromas are a complex tapestry. Ripe red and orchard fruits lead to citrus zest under a smoky wood veil. As the wine breathes, hints of brioche, honeycomb, toasted almond and forest floor emerge. That first sip, I tell you, it just explodes with powerful vibrancy. The fine crisp acidity leads the charge, then fruit cascades in waves of cherry, strawberry and pomegranate, along with a compote of peach and pear. The mineral and citrus backbone are equally elegant. But wait, the depth appears with each sip and unfolds into toasted brioche, honey, smoky salinity. The texture is luxurious and so refreshing thanks to the zero dosage. The finish is long and lingering as it finishes its story. I cannot think of a better champagne to kick off an exciting new year. Pair with one of my favorite cheeses, Brillât-Savarin, crab ravioli or decadent caviar.