Supported by a fine structure, the new Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2012, born in the light of the chalk soils, is an incredibly energetic wine. The year 2012 will have given it a beautiful maturity and rare level of intensity.
2012, a unique set of weather conditions
The 2012 vintage experienced a year of contrasts, characterised by a series of climatic events which made for particularly challenging conditions for the vines: periods of frost (after a mild spell) in February and then in May, followed by hailstorms affecting multiple sectors between April and July. Strong periods of sunshine ensued without excessive heat levels, coupled with low yields that allowed for a rare level of maturity and led to the emergence of a harmonious and balanced Comtes de Champagne.
Comtes de Champagne : a terroir first and foremost
“We decided to use only the five Grands Crus from the Côte des Blancs for the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs cuvee,” explains Damien le Sueur, Maison Taittinger General Manager. Consequently, the Chardonnays are sourced from the following five villages: Avize, Chouilly, Cramant, Mesnil-sur-Oger and Oger. This unique terroir is a strip of land measuring barely 20 km. White grapes flourish beautifully on this type of soil, from which they derive their minerality, robustness and aromatic sophistication. “Chalk acts like a sponge. It captures water and holds it through capillary action which not only facilitates excellent soil drainage and provides plants with a regular supply of amino acids and mineral salts – the precursors of aromas – but also contributes minerality which is revealed at a later stage in the wines,” explains Christelle Rinville.
“Each cru must meet the exacting standards that we’re looking for in order to produce a Comtes vintage,” outlines Damien le Sueur. All Comtes de Champagne vintages are unique; however, they all belong to the same family with shared DNA, a common thread when it comes to tension, finesse and precision.”
The criteria for its creation mean that it cannot be produced on a large scale, and Comtes de Champagne benefits from a great deal of care and attention until it reaches peak condition. During the 10 years it has spent maturing in cellars, time has worked its magic, meaning this vintage comes to us with an extraordinary ageing potential and energy.
The eye, the nose and the palate
The Comtes de Champagne 2012 keeps all its promises. Crystal clear, with a beautiful golden shimmer through colours of straw yellow and reflections of gold; the bead is fine, delicate and dynamic.
The nose takes you into a world of maturity and voluptuousness. It releases notes of candied citrus fruits, Williams pears and apricots and unveils pastry and brioche aromas, including lemon meringue, nougat and almond.
A wine of great mineral power, dense and rich, with Chardonnays flexing a hint of iodine. The seductiveness of this wine lies in its aromatic density, taking you on a journey through refreshing flavours of ripe citrus fruits paired with a long, saline finish. It will evolve with both energy and finesse.
Food pairings
Perfect for a special celebration, this champagne is the ideal match for a seafood, shellfish or fish entrée. With an ideal serving temperature of 11°C, this cuvee surprises from the first sips with its incredible youthfulness and crystal-clear, taut texture.
