Pop, Fizz, Clink: Taittinger Champagne

Ahh, the sound of a cork popping, could there be anything sweeter? Whether it’s just two people in the room or hundreds, there’s a certain energy that fills the space as soon as a bottle of bubbly is opened; a moments pause, heightened anticipation followed by triumphant rejoice. Perhaps because the uncorking almost always signifies a special occasion – birthdays, weddings, holidays – surrounded by those we love most. I’m a firm believer that when a celebration is that significant, the quality of the drink must measure up. In other words: you gotta bust out the good stuff! Yup, I’m talking Champagne: not just any sparkling wine, but the kind that’s meticulously crafted in the historic Champagne houses of France. And while there are many producers to choose from in the region, a select few are in their own league when it comes to quality and consistency…

As one of the last family-owned and operated Grand Marque Champagne houses in France, Taittinger has been producing exceptional bubbly since 1932. The winemakers expertly combine Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes from their 288-hectare vineyard (one of the region’s largest) to create fresh, elegant Champagne. The blending process is an art that takes decades to fine-tune: something this house has definitely mastered over the years…

I recently had a chance to sip on Taittinger Brut Réserve (their signature cuvée) at the iYellow Wine Cave surrounded by some of my favourite people. Made from a blend of over 35 crus, it’s a lively and delicate brut with fine bubbles, expressive aromas and a long finish. Yes, yes, yes! I detected notes of fresh stone fruit, honey and brioche. It was complex and beautifully balanced — exactly the kind of Champagne I want to serve to those I heart! I was surprised to learn about the high proportion of chardonnay incorporated in the bubbly (40% which is rare for a non-vintage Champagne). The brut is also aged for 3/4 years in the cellar which really allows it to mature and develop character…

Photo credit: Taittinger

I can’t wait to try their other cuvées (I hear they’ll be coming to the LCBO in 2016 so keep your eyes peeled), but for now I’ll stick to the delicious Brut Réserve ($59.95). I highly recommend grabbing a bottle or two and sharing it with your faves — for special occasions or just because (I may or may not be guilty of the latter). Oh, and if you like oysters, this is the Champagne to serve them with: the chardonnay-based brut pairs perfectly by balancing the salinity and heightening the freshness of the mollusks. Wishing you all a happy holidays and NYE. Santé!

I was gifted Taittinger for review purposes. As always, reviews and opinions are my own.