We were last week-end (March19-21) in Champagne. To really get into champagne world, Bertrand (owner of De Telmont house) decided to organize for us a total visit of his region where he grew up.
In the morning, after a magnificient dinner the day before with my wife and friends we had the exciting moment to taste 3 different Grand Couronnement Cuvée from 1999-1996-1990 vintages.
For De Telmont house, the best expression of chardonnay is always coming from Avize and Chouilly villages.
In a way, they are the best two terroirs and the best chardonnay you can get from "Cotes des Blancs". This cuvée is always 100% chardonnay.
a) Color: light yellow
b) First and second nose: fine with ageing hints, then really elegant with some freshness.
c) Mouth: nice maturation, excellent blend of terroirs (60% Avize and 40% Chouilly), pleasant with a light acidity.
d) Suggestion : good for aperitive and will go nicely on a carpaccio of sea scallops...
2- Grand Couronnement 1996- 12°C
a) Color: light gold
b) First and second nose: good balance, discret with a certain complexity
c) Mouth: rancio, walnut, nuts, butter and hints of wood and vanilla
d) suggestion: good for an entree such as goose liver...
a) Color: deep gold
b) First and second nose: good acidity, very elegant and well-done
c) Mouth: roasted, rancio, hints of cacao and coffee with a very light menthol finish
d) Suggestion: will go very well with a "creme brulée"
To finish this tasting, I will tell you these 3 vintages of Chardonnay were incredible and let you think that you can always combine your champagne with any dishes that you like to share with your friends!!!
Remember everybody has its own perception how to enjoy a champagne...and best thing is to respect it.
Sante!
MFM
