Chartogne-Taillet, Sainte Anne Brut, Merfy, Champagne, France NV

Tasting Notes

A harmonious and perfectly poised Champagne with a precise acidity and a richness of fruit and a fine mousse. Baked almond notes enhance fruit notes of lemon and apple. A fine grower champagne of meticulous workmanship.

A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Noir; no herbicides are used in the vineyards which are ploughed by horse. A natural fermentation, vinified in a combination of stainless steel and oak barrels.

Background

The Taillet family have owned vineyards in the village of Merfy on the Coteau de Saint-Thierry, north-west of Reims since the 17th century, whilst the Chartognes were comparative newcomers in 1870… In 1920 Etienne Taillet married Marie Chartogne and so the company was formed. It is now run by Alexandre Chartogne, who is a great believer in traditions in the vineyards and modern techniques in winemaking. He used a horse for work in the vines and had a small flock of sheep to keep down the weeds. Sadly they strayed one evening and were rounded up by the local fire-brigade, at the price of one for their annual barbecue. Their Les Barres vineyard is planted with ungrafted Pinot Meunier vines. This is just one of four single vineyard wines they produce in the best years.

The company produces the highest-rated grower’s Champagnes in Tom Stevenson’s Christie’s World Encyclopedia of Champagne and Sparkling Wine and they are also the favourite of American wine critic Robert Parker.

Food matching

Oysters