NV Taittinger - Brut La Française

An elegantly fresh and delicate Champagne blended from a high proportion of Chardonnay grapes to yield a refined flavor palette of pear and stone fruits offset by warm, yeasty notes and hints of breadcrust. The subtle, pale gold color of Taittinger Brut La Fran?aise is punctuated by extremely fine, persistent bubbles rising to the surface in fragile strands. The fragrant berry and white fruit aromas, underscored by toasty, yeasty notes are confirmed on the ample, elegant palate which is strongly marked by refined Chardonnay fruit flavors. A fresh, balanced acidity sustains the whole, and carries into a long, crisp toasty finish of great delicacy. Pinot Noir lends the finished blend body, vinosity, structure and power as well as the elegant red berry aromas typical of the variety; Pinot Meunier provides a supple, round fruitiness to the wine; Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse, crispness and delicacy to the blend, as well as a degree of structure and longevity.

Hints of marzipan and lightly charred toast add richness without overwhelming the flavors of poached pear, lemon curd and black currant in this lively version, showing a creamy, detailed texture. Drink now through 2018. 3,200 cases imported.

Pale straw in color with a fine bead. As always, this is an elegant, distinctive and impeccably crisp Champagne. It is the epitome of stylish; tightly focused, it gently unwraps itself into a graceful, immaculately clean finish that's lightly toasty and hints at coconut and vanilla wafer. —Paul Gregutt,