Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2005
Trade Tools
France / Champagne
Produced only in exceptional vintage years and intended as the ultimate expression of the Taittinger style, this wine is composed entirely of Chardonnay grapes grown in the top vineyards of the prestigious Côte des Blancs. Only the first press juice is used. A small proportion (5%) of the blend spends three to four months in new oak barrels, enhancing the intrinsic qualities of the final blend. Prior to disgorgement, the Blanc de Blancs is aged for 10 years on the lees in 13th-century chalk cellars that were once the property of Saint Nicaise abbey.
Harvest Note
In general, 2005 was warm and dry. After a tough but dry winter, spring was very mild with a few warm periods. Flowering occurred from June 15th to 19th. After concentrated rainfall towards the end of June and beginning of July, the rest of July was dominated by hot weather and August by cool weather. The grape harvest, which began on 12th September, was spread over a long period of time and took place in mild, damp weather. The wind picked up at the end of the harvest, which provided a healthy, abundant crop. The Chardonnays, of excellent quality, are characterized by their freshness and their mineral quality, as well as their generous, long finish. The Pinot Noirs give very clean, vinous and ample wines.
Tasting Note
A pale yellow Champagne with very light, abundant bubbles which rise steadily. Very rich, intense bouquet, opening with notes of pastry cream accompanied by lightly toasted notes. On the palate, the attack is frank with good tension, good structure and a hint of fruit wood. The mid-palate is smooth and voluptuous, with flavors of ripe fruit such as pink grapefruit. The long, rich, complex finish is accompanied by a pleasant freshness.
Technical Data
GRAPES: 100% Chardonnay
APPELLATION: Champagne
ABV: 12.3%
AGING: 8 years on the lees
Unique Selling Points
- The wine for celebrations!
- The ultimate expression of the Taittinger style
- Produced only in exceptional vintage years
- Made entirely from Chardonnay grapes from the top vineyards of the prestigious Côte des Blancs
- Aged 10 years on the lees
“If only once in your life . . . Comtes de Champagne Grands Crus Blanc de Blancs.”
Vitalie Taittinger, President
About the Grape
Chardonnay
Though it has a distinctive profile, Chardonnay reflects other factors such as soil composition and vinification technique. Chardonnay is a reliable, hardy and prolific vine whose only real vulnerabilities are frost and uneven development of fruit.
