Ten months ago I decided to move to Champagne. Immersing myself in Champagne has been a slow process; it has taken time to scratch beyond the surface to find my way amongst the myriad traditions, rules and regulations that are the backbone of this region. But living here has allowed
New in the US this year, Lanson’s brut rosé is an elegant example of a champagne that more than fulfills its promise. Pale salmon in color, with very small bubbles. The barest hint of rose-petals with light yeast on the nose. A bone dry, beautifully balanced wine. Some raspberry, and
New in the US this year, Lanson’s brut rosé is an elegant example of a champagne that more than fulfills its promise. Pale salmon in color, with very small bubbles. The barest hint of rose-petals with light yeast on the nose. A bone dry, beautifully balanced wine. Some raspberry, and
The wine is a very pretty bright light yellow with a steady stream of tiny bubbles. Pears, yeast, and a touch of smoke are on the nose. Smoke is stronger on the palate, underlying deeper fruits, a blend of baked apples and fresh apples, fresh baked bread and a touch
The wine is a very pretty bright light yellow with a steady stream of tiny bubbles. Pears, yeast, and a touch of smoke are on the nose. Smoke is stronger on the palate, underlying deeper fruits, a blend of baked apples and fresh apples, fresh baked bread and a touch
In my experience, vins clairs tastings are a rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of the wine before the bubbles, and to imagine their development over time; they are a unique foray into the magical kingdom of champagne. Early in the life of a bottle of champagne, before bubbles have
The color is very pale yellow with a caramel tinge, bubbles are small and moderately active. The nose is lovely, deep with an underlying umami richness beneath fresh pears and apples. On the palate tart apples take the lead, driven as much by bright acids as apple flavors. The apple
Here in Champagne, one often says that champagne is first and foremost a wine. However the characteristics of this wine change significantly with the adding of the dosage (a mixture of base wine and cane sugar) at the time of disgorging. Today's most popular Champagne style is brut—which often contains 6 to 12