Champagne Christian Lassaigne-Berlot Cuvée L’Infinie
Champagne Christian Lassaigne-Berlot Cuvée L’Infinie Made from 100% Chardonnay with a minimum of 48 months sur lie. The Solera is a range of years from 2012 to 2017. Pours into the glass a pale gold, glistening with a vibrant mousse that forms fine, persistent bubbles. The nose is Inviting and complex as the aromas unfolds. Ripe orchard fruits like pear, white peach and apple, white blossom bouquet and citrus zest. A deeper layer emerges with hints of brioche, toasted almonds along with wet stone minerality. As the wine breaths, hints of honeysuckle and honey add a sweet touch to the aromas. The initial impression is one of laser-like acidity, a tingling zestiness that cleanses the palate and awakens the senses. The 100% Chardonnay character shines through, offering elegant minerality and a core of ripe orchard fruit. The mid-palate expands with creamy textures, with lemon sorbet, hints of brioche and buttered toast revealing the solera’s gentle touch. The finale on toasted hazelnuts echoes precisely and lingeringly along a moorish salinity.
Chateau Cantin Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2018
Chateau Cantin Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2018 Pours into the glass a deep garnet red with youthful purple hues at the rim. A complex and inviting nose that opens with expressive red fruit notes of ripe cherry, raspberry, and blackberry, followed by hints of cassis, plum, and blackcurrant. Underlying aromas of violets, licorice, and subtle earthiness add depth and intrigue. As the wine breathes, nuances of cedar, vanilla, and baking spices emerge, hinting at the oak aging. The first sip brings forth a medium-bodied with a silky texture and well-integrated tannins that lend structure without being harsh. The initial sweetness of the ripe fruit is balanced by a refreshing acidity, creating a lively and mouthwatering palate.Flavors of black cherry, plum, and earth predominate, supported by subtle notes of pepper, tobacco, and leather. The oak influence is subtle, adding hints of vanilla and toast, but never overwhelming the fruit character. Long and lingering finish, with the fruit and spice notes slowly fading away, leaving a pleasant impression of earthiness and minerality. The Chateau Cantin Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2018 is a classic expression of Saint-Emilion, showcasing the elegance and finesse of the Merlot grape blended with the structure and complexity of Cabernet Franc. It is a well-balanced and age-worthy wine that is already delicious now but will continue to develop and unfold its full potential over the next few years. Make it stand out Pair it with food such as roasted lamb, grilled meats, or aged cheeses or a classic pot roast.
Lively Domaine Paul Buisse Sauvignon Blanc
I can’t think of a better way to pass a leisurely afternoon than wine tasting with friends. @farmerbecky24 and I began our #dégustation with a zippy Sauvignon Blanc from @domainepaulbuisse It livens all of your senses upon arrival. Domaine Paul Buisse Touraine 2021 Domaine Paul Buisse wines are a staple and excellent QPR from Touraine. À pioneer of sustainable farming in Touraine. Their vineyards are located in the most idyllic areas in the region. Pours into the glass a palest of yellow with a touch of green at the rim. The aromatics say HELLO you’ve arrived in Touraine, greeted with signature aromas of Sauvignon Blanc – fresh lime zest, white blossom, freshly squeezed lime juice and grapefruit, freshly cut grass, wet stone and a touch of beeswax. The palate has a delicate roundness. The lively acidity hits the palate from start to finish. Very keen and focused flavors of grapefruit zest and juice, ripe gooseberry, peach and minerals ending on a slightly fresh pithy finish. Wine tasting builds up an appetite don’t you know 😉 we nibbled on Délices de Bourgogne, Stilton and Schallenberg cheeses and charcuterie from @cheeseshopcenterbrook absolutely moorish. A fresh start to our tasting – stay tuned for more. Un grand merci à @concours_des_feminalise pour les vins gagnants
Pehu-Simonet Fins Lieux #7 Les Chouettes 2013
𝐿𝑒𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝓈𝑒𝓃𝓈𝑒𝓈 𝑔𝓊𝒾𝒹𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒮𝒽𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝒾𝓉 𝓊𝓅, 𝒾𝓃𝓈𝓅𝒾𝓇𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊 – 𝐿𝒾𝓉𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝒱𝒾𝑜𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓶𝓹𝓪𝓰𝓷𝓮 𝓟𝓮𝓱𝓾-𝓢𝓲𝓶𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓽 𝓕𝓲𝓷𝓼 𝓛𝓲𝓮𝓾𝔁 #7 𝓛𝓮𝓼 𝓒𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓮𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓼 2013 Located in Verzenay, David Pehu-Simonet is a fourth generation grower producer who focuses on single parcel champagnes in order to retain the individuality and personality of each parcel. He considers himself a bit of a maverick in the world of champagne. His labels have punch, brightness to them. He doesn’t allow malolactic fermentation ( which mainstream do). To achieve an uncommon freshness and purity in his champagnes, he skips malolactic fermentation. However, to compensate for the potential sharpness this can cause, he ages his champagnes for a longer period than most other producers. He makes very specific single parcel/terroir champagnes which have a purity, fleshiness and character to them. They used both stainless steel and barrels for fermentation, depending on the plot of their 7.5 hectare estate. This single parcel #7 Les Chouettes is 100% Chardonnay from the Villers-Marmery at 150-200 meter slopes planted on chalky rich soils. Stainless steel fermentation, no malo, followed by 72 months sur lie, disgorged February 2021, dosage 3g/L Deep golden with fine focuses bubbles in the glass that continue endlessly. Inviting aromas of baked apple, saline minerals caramel, lime zest, lemon curd, acacia, honey, mushroom, smoke, toasted brioche, vanilla , burnt toffee and cream fill the glass with overall richness and freshness. A well rounded Extra Brut style & palate with juicy citrus, earthy salinity, mushrooms and chalky notes. The finish has an ethereal zingy caramelized ginger, anise and toasted hazelnuts ending. Linear and powerfully precise, it has a direction, its carries you away with its layers of complexity and beauty. Let this champagne guide your senses🥂
Bubbly Baddasses & Elise Bougy
I couldn’t think of a better champagne to pair with this fascinating webinar hosted by Bubbly Badasses: Women in the History of Champagne is a wonderful webinar journey of #womeninwine was a fabulous small production Blanc de Noirs from Élise Bougy. ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕞𝕡𝕒𝕘𝕟𝕖 É𝕝𝕚𝕤𝕖 𝔹𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕪 𝕃𝕖 𝕄𝕠𝕟𝕥 ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕢𝕦𝕖𝕦𝕩 𝔹𝕝𝕒𝕟𝕔 𝕕𝕖 ℕ𝕠𝕚𝕣𝕤 𝟙𝕖𝕣 ℂ𝕣𝕦 𝔹𝕣𝕦𝕥 ℕ𝕒𝕥𝕦𝕣𝕖 Vines dating back to 1965 that Elise’s grandparents planted, the co-planted Pinot Noir & Pinot Meunier parcels on soils of silt, chalk and clay at the foothills of Montagne de Reims. Organic and biodynamic, this #blancdenoirs from 2018 harvest undergoes spontaneous fermentation aged 7 months in foudre and 228-liter barrels, no fining, no filtration. disgorged March 2021, no dosage. Only 1500 bottles produced. “The label was illustrated by Camille Sardet, who has superbly captured the vibrant spirit of Elise Bougy and the vitality of the plot in a mosaic that symbolises both ‘the visible and the invisible’ energy of the Domaine.” Pours into the glass and bright yellow gold color. It’s a very aromatic yet delicate #blancdenoirs beginning with a burst of orchard fruits evolving into juicy wild berries, white blossom and mineraity with a subtle sweet pastry and caramel. At zero dosage, the freshness is exuberant on the palate. The bright acidity and lively perlage are full of energy. The purity of the flavors is so crystalline- ripe green apple, Bosc pear, quince and yellow plum, cranberry, subtle minerals, sweet apple danish and roasted almonds into a biscuit ginger finish. Wondrously long lasting finish who’s flavors and perfumes linger lovingly after the last sip.
Topografia – A Love for Food & Wine….
It all started with a love for food and wine….. Growing up in Ecuador, Carlos Garcia was surrounded by the Spanish influence of food and wine culture. He always had a fascination, curiosity about the story behind the bottle, how it’s made, ever evolving and learning which continued through his adulthood and career in USA. An adventurer by nature and in business, he set out to realize what most dream of, to make stunningly elegant wines meant to be shared and a legacy for his two daughters. Timing in life is everything. He was given the opportunity to purchase a few acres of land at the Vines of Mendoza project, which set the wheels in motion. His journey sounds as if its straight out of a movie ( I have visions of Tom Cruise in Ron Howards film Far and Away) – riding on horseback through the Mendoza terrain, view of the Andes mountains in the distance, he came upon a specific area and knew instinctively this was it, this is where it will all happen. His vision of creating wines that are meant to be enjoyed with family and friends whilst enjoying flavorful meals and camaraderie. In 2007 the first vines were planted. It takes at least three years to produce the first vintage. Its a project of patience, passion and understanding. As part of the Vines of Mendoza, they share the winemaking and facility resources amongst the other wineries. Of note, they are likely the largest fermentation winery in the world, currently close to 500 fermentations happening all at once. Topografia is a artisanal winery making very small production wines, as few as 300 bottles per release which provides a greater flexibility to experiment and create new, exciting wines. Topografia’s label and name represents the “the configuration of a surface including its relief and the position of its natural and man-made features” The logo depicts the lunar sun in its cycle of nature yet is not a perfect circle because as we know nothing is perfect. All of the symbols represent the link, the adventure and connection to nature and its people. As Carlos said, “What’s in the bottle is a liquid representation of the land.” The back label contains all of the necessary information that you would find on a tech sheet which as a wine geek is a big plus. There was no question from the beginning of the winery’s long term responsibility to the environment and community – organic, sustainable and limited footprint. All of the Mendoza vines are planted at 1,050 meters altitude, hand harvested which imparts a very elegant character to the wines as well as higher quality grapes. Pablo Martorell, the highly regarded (as well as highly experienced and awarded) local third generation passionate to the nth degree winemaker. He treats each and every release like an individual, his baby. Carlos had very specific ideas in mind for his wines – elegant quality wines meant to be shared which Pablo understood immediately and crafted his wines with the same vision. The first two vintages, 2010 and 2011 (especially the Barrel Fermentation Malbec and Reserva Blend) are the closest and dearest to his heart. Of note the 2011 Barrel Fermentation Malbec was only made that year and I had the great fortune to taste this beauty. Drinking beautifully now they both have the structure to further age. In addition a Torrentes, Malbec, Reserva Cabernet Franc, Reserva Petit Verdot are amongst the current releases. Following the success of their limited releases, he decided to travel to different regions to collaborate and build long lasting winemaking relationships. “It had to have an intangible fit, an ethos, synergy if you will” says Carlos. The first collaboration was a 2018 Super Tuscan collaboration in Montalcino, Italy with Roberto Cirpesso of Wine Circus, followed by a 2020 Blue Slate Trocken Riesling with Ernst Loosen of Dr. Loosen Estate in the Mosel, Germany, . For the next wine adventure he headed to Champagne where, with Champagne Drappier, he began with a Non-Vintage Blanc de Noir blend (release date: 2024), followed by a 2021 Vintage Pinot Noir-Chardonnay blend (release date: 2026). A spectacular 2021 Priorat (Spain) red blend of Grenache and Carignan to join the lineup, along with a few others in the pipeline (stay tuned). All small lots, limited releases. The color of each label has meaning – the tan label for example is a true fruit expression while the black Reserva is about the maximum expression of the terroir and extended influence. I cannot thank Carlos of welcoming me into the Topografia journey and the personal wines that he helped create. Follow along this journey of his wines with additional posts to follow on the Mendoza and other collaborations. 1 Merriam-Webster Dictionary definition
Closerie Des Alisiers Love Of Pinot Noir
Oh Pinot Noir have I love your way, everyday, I wanna tell you I love your way, everyday…. Côte des Nuits is 95% of the wine is from the expressive Pinot Noir. Marsannay is the only appellation Village in the Côte de Nuits which produces all three wine rainbow colors, with Fixin and Gevrey-Chambertin being its neighbors Stéphane Brocard Closerie Des Alisiers Viellles Vignes Marsannay 2019 Pours into the glass an intense ruby red. This Clos shows beautiful typicity in its bouquet with fresh red and black fruits, delicate game and earthiness. The freshness on the palate is evident from start to finish with its bright acidity and flavors of morello cherry, raspberry, red currant, blackberry, blueberry, violet finishing on thyme, clove with fine persistent minerality. The tannins are very silky and smooth and such a pleasure on the palate. It’s the kind of well balance and intensely aromatic Pinot Noir that woos wine lovers with delight.
A Tale of Two Burgundies
A tale of two Burgundies is always welcome… Both gold medal award winning wines from Concours Burgondia, both 100% Chardonnay, both are Premier Cru but from two different regions in Burgundy with distinct nuances. Domaine Denis Père Et Fils Pernand-Vergelesses 2019 Domaine De La Madone Mercurey 2020 Located in the heart of The village of Pernand-Vergelesses is a sloping, steep nestled in between the two valleys of Côte de Beaune. The hills of Corton hug this village to the north and Aloxe-Corton and Ladoix-Serrigny hugging the other sides. The vinyards are all located in the south. The soils are a deep red color, rich in iron on a base of limestone which imparts an Asian spice to the wine as well as strong minerality. Pours into the glass a bright gold color. Delivers remarkable aromas of fragrant citrus, lemon curd, oatmeal, acacia, golden honey, freshly churned butter, cream, oak, vanilla and crushed stone. It has a lively acidity with a creamy mouthfeel and flavors of freshly picked green apple, bosc pear, lemon and grapefruit zest, lemon juice, wet stone, buttered toast and oatmeal. It has a lovely lingering finish on Asian spice and raw hazelnuts, reminiscent of a Meursault. Its showcasing finesse, excellent balance, and depth with an expansive minerality Over to Mercurey, located in the heart of Côte Chalonnaise just after Rully, tucked into the rolling hillsides protected from winds in the Golden Valley. The vines are at 230 to 320 metres planted white limey soils and red clays, the vines are truly at home. Pours into the glass the typical deep gold color. It packs notes of bright Meyer lemon, heady stone fruit, ripe green apple, pear, acacia, buttery oak, hazelnut and flint. The juicy minerality and bright acidity lift the ripe, creamy peach, nectarine, lemon, tangerine, apple and pear, dough, minerals, butter, hazelnut and a touch of cinnamon ending in a flinty kiss that is its calling card. It has a beautiful structure full of flavor and pizazz. The quality is extremely high and excellent QPR wines. Thanks to Burgondia for sharing these award winners. Looking forward to the 17th annual competition in February. Which tale appeals to your senses?
Chateau La Garde 2015
Stylish, approachable and oh so delicious Bordeaux red blend from Pessac-Léognan. Chateau La Garde 2015 The La Garde dates back to the first general map of the Kingdom of France by the Cassini’s in 1756. The negotiant Lacoste family purchased the estate in 1877. Over the years the estate has changed hands and names from Domaine de la Garde, Clos de La Garde and finally Chateau La Garde, a coat of arms depicting a leopard with a lion’s head, inspired by the crest of Aquitaine during the Hundred Years’ War. In 1990 The winemaking team at Dourthe was the potential of the La Garde’s fantastic gravel outcrops and want to make it a rising-star of Bordeaux. Integrated agriculture in oder to persevere and proceed natures gifts and minimal human intervention. After years of hardworking and dedication they have created refined and charming wines o f the region. A blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, this red Bordeaux blend is deep almost black ruby color in the glass. The glass offers intense nose of smoky notes, ripe black and red fruit, tobacco, vanilla, leather, earthy cocoa. Fleshy, well balanced fruit and nicely grippy tannins but not overbearing. The flavors are bountiful with blackberry, black currant, cherry, bramble, violet, cedar, gravel, smoke and licorice. It’s smooth in its mouthfeel and lingering on the finish. Such a pleasure to enjoy amongst family and friends.
Bishop by Ben Glaetzer
The Glaetzer family are some of the earliest recorded viticulturists dating back to 1890 in Barossa Valley and Clare family which is continued today as a family wine business. Named after Colin’s wife’s maiden name Bishop, all began winemaking in Barossa Valley 30 years ago is spearheaded by the third and fourth generations of the Glaetzer family. A boutique winery producing wines of elegance and richness. They utilize dry farming as one of many environmental sound practices. in Ebenezer sub-region utilizing technology for ultimate ripeness and longer skin contact. The top quality fruit is sourced from 80-110 year old, non-grafted bush vines which are extremely low yielding. Glaetzer Bishop Shiraz 2016 Deep ruby violet color promises you are in for a treat. Lush blue fruits of blueberry, mulberry, blackberry, black cherry and juicy raspberry, bramble, cocoa, fig and tobacco leaf aromas powerfully lift from the glass along with cocoa, pepper, smoked meat and eucalyptus. A generous Shiraz chockerbock full of old vine influence concentration, rich fruit and mouthfeel. A full bodied wine with juicy acidity and supple slight grip tannins. The flavors of concentrated ripe fruit found on the nose, fruitcake, baking spice, espresso, tobacco ending on a hint of smoke, pepper and eucalyptus finish. Flows very easily across the palate and ticks all of the boxes for a well made moorish wine. Sintilating pairings of spice-braised lamb or burgers with blue cheese.