This extraordinary vintage, which went through a series of extreme weather events, is also unusual compared with other Grand Vintage champagnes owing to the proportions in the blend. While Chardonnay is the single most prominent grape in the blend (41%), the black varieties dominate and were particularly successful this vintage. Meunier is particularly assertive, and at 26% its volume is almost equal to Pinot Noir (33%).
Bright pale yellow colour with green glints, and fine and persistent bubbles.
Hints of fresh white flowers evolve towards pastry, sweet and blond notes, punctuated by nuances of fresh walnut, hazelnut and crispbread. They are enhanced with crunchy, freshly ripe fruit with aromas of pear, white peach, and nectarine.
The first contact is velvety, supple and sleek. Then the texture unfolds, as soft as cashmere or felt. This initial softness gradually purifies, the acid structure lengthens and persists, developing into a tangy note with a taste of the sea, underscored by a delicious pink grapefruit note.
5 g/liter
5 years
At least 6 months
« Car nous voulons la Nuance encor, Pas la Couleur, rien que la nuance ! » (Paul Verlaine)
On tasting, the cool green of fluorite evolves towards slightly brioche-scented pastry tones, towards the warm crunch of hazelnut. Then, the fruity notes give rise to pink pastels like on the fluffy skin of a white peach.
Without being opulent, the rich and persistent structure of this Grand Vintage 2012 champagne seeks the company of intense yet agile dishes, like a feather or cashmere fabric. The appearance of a crunchy element in this ensemble will provide a stunning contrast.
This hire-wire act of a champagne requires the same dexterity from the chef: it all hangs in the balance.
The harmony must be perfectly in tune between sweetness and freshness.
Choose fish and shellfish that have a certain firmness (monkfish, turbot, scallops, flat oysters, etc.)
Use broth, braised or simmered cooking techniques for white meats.
Explore sweet spices.
The powerful sea aromas of natural oysters, oyster leaf, sea urchins, etc.
Pronounced and dominant acidity: vinegar, lemon juice, lemon caviar, etc.
Excessive or overripe fruity aromas, excessive sweetness.
Overly strong juices and potent or concentrated flavours in sauces.
Nuts and dried fruit, which are too dark at this stage of the vintage’s maturation process.
Mâche non excessiveJutosité délicate et éléganteŒufs de poisson (pour le craquant et la salinité iodée)
Poissons à chair blanche (daurade, bar, turbot, St. Pierre, Sole) Œufs de poisson
Cru :Sushi, sashimi, carpaccioMariné “à la tahitienne” (Citron vert, gingembre, lait de coco)Ceviche sans excès de vinaigre ou de sojaCuit :Rôti sans excès de colorationPoché et servis avec une mayonnaise vis avec une mayonnaise
A new take on cauliflower
Unusual citrus
« Much like his champagne, as soon as Monsieur Moët enters the rooms boredom disappears. »
