As a “seasonal” treat, I have chosen Moet & Chandon Imperial Brut Champagne as the Wine of the Month for December. French Champagne is the undisputed “king” of sparkling wine. Besides being a very popular drink to ring in the New Year with (hence the seasonal), it also goes well with most appetizers. The issue, of course, is that good French Champagne is not cheap. However, this bottle can be had at Clinton Wine & Spirits in Steve’s range and there are many sparkling wine options that can be had in Billy’s price range; several of which I will explore below.
In order to be called Champagne, it MUST come from a specific region in France. Otherwise, it’s sparkling wine, which many countries make (including France – cremant or Spain – cava). According to my notes from the National Wine School (NWS), traditional champagne is made from a combination of three grapes: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. It also undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle, which gives it the “bubbles”. If the Champagne is Blanc de Blanc, it is made only from Chardonnay. If it is Blanc de Noir, it is made only from red grapes. The styles of Champagne are as follows: brut (dry), sec (semi-dry), and doux (sweet). Most Champagnes are non-vintage (NV), because they are a blend of years. The rare vintage Champagne is much more expensive.
As far as tasting notes go, you should smell aromas of apple, citrus fruit, honey, and maybe toast. Additionally, you might taste brioche, almonds, and ginger. It has a juicy acidity, lively bubbles, and a dry, crisp finish. Both the Wine Spectator (WS) & James Suckling (JS) rate this one in the low 90’s. Champagne goes best with strawberries (Pretty Woman was right!), but also goes well with most appetizers and mellow cheeses (like brie, muenster, or camembert). If you want vintage Champagne in Reggie III’s range (very expensive – $200+), then look for 2015 or 2016. The best vintners are Bollinger, Krug, Roederer, Taittinger, and (of course) Dom Perignon. Other French Champagnes in Steve’s range are G.H. Mumm and Veuve Clicquot. For descent American sparkling (mostly NV in Billy’s range), try Domaine Carneros, Schramsberg, Roederer, Domaine Chandon, Iron Horse, or Mumm Napa. As you might have guessed, several of these wines are the French guys doing their thing in America.
That should do it for Blog Post #16. Next week will be another Food and Wine post. Hope you have a Merry Christmas. Cheers!