Taittinger : Brut Reserve

Representing a bottling currently circulating in Europe as their self-proclaimed “signature” cuvee, Taittinger’s NV Brut Reserve L3208NA02500 delivers fresh apple and lime on an exuberantly juicy palate, with notes of zest and apple pit adding invigoration to a lusciously lingering finish. Less complex or subtle – not to mention less strikingly buoyant – than its U.S. “La Francaise” counterpart that I tasted alongside, the sweetness of this Reserve renders it all the more vividly apple-y, though that implies a certain sweet-sour tug. Certainly its finish exhibits impressive sheer grip. I imagine that it might become more interesting over the coming year, but I would not hold bottles longer. Imported by Kobrand, Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7700

Hints of smoke and spice underscore flavors of poached pear and white raspberry in this delicate, aperitif-style Champagne, with a lacy mousse. Crisp and lightly citrusy. Drink now through 2021. 50,000 cases made, 2,971 cases imported.

A slight whiff of melted butter on the nose. Lovely plum and melon notes on the palate with a mouth-watering finish.

Light golden yellow with silver reflections. Delicate bouquet of floral aromas, lime blossom, subtle meadow herbs, hints of citrus and pineapple. Medium body, well-balanced acidity with a slight sweetness on the palate. Medium-long finish with sweetish apple fruit in the aftertaste.

A medium yellow hue, the NV Champagne Brut Reserve has a 2021 base and is the calling card of this estate. Offering fantastic, pure notes, it’s a delightful, ripe, and warming wine, with a pillowy mousse and notes of pineapple, orchard fruit, and brioche. Full-bodied, it has a rounded and supple texture, with a long finish. It’s ready to drink now and should also hang on another 6-8 years easily. Drink 2025-2035.

Taittinger’s signature Brut Reserve NV is a blend of 40% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir and 25% Pinot Meunier based on the 2019 vintage with 30% reserve wines, of which 20% are Grand Cru. Pale champagne-yellow in color, the nose reveals delicate notes of honeysuckle, dried apricot and hints of toast. The medium-bodied palate is well balanced, with vibrant, supple acidity framing a textured, ripe fruit core. It finishes long and refreshing, with attractive honeyed notes.

A lovely golden-yellow hue, with Chardonnay making up 40%. The nose is juicy and candied, with a mix of white and yellow fruits and citrus. The floral thread is charming, and the honey and toasted-bread notes come through with a gentle touch. On the palate, it is delicate and finely textured, brimming with peach, apricot and exotic flavors. A flavorful finish with chalky freshness and white, pippy fruit. Excellent.

The nose opens on a grilled reduction; it’s the house style to display this slightly restrained aromatic profile. The bubbles are fine

A lovely brut, supple and rounded, well-constructed in an elegant style.

A lot of freshness on the bouquet with notes of pear and anise. Lovely aromatic intensity on the palate and, above all, exceptionally fine bubbles along with an acid structure that revitalizes the entire palate! A tasty, refreshing Champagne.

Lemon, biscuit, fresh peach and pie crust on the nose. It's creamy and silky with excellent freshness and very soft bubbles. 40% chardonnay, 35% pinot noir and 25% pinot meunier. Base wine from 2020 (70%) with 30% reserve wines. 9 g/L dosage. Drink now.

The nonvintage Taittinger cuvée, with its lively mousse, is soft and creamily fruity. While the bottle tasted was young, it had enough ripe white fruits and lime-juice flavors to balance out the freshness. Typically for Taittinger, Chardonnay is an important element in the blend, giving the wine its final mineral tautness.