Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne, Cuvee Speciale – Vintage 2017, Champagne, France, White – Brut, 75cl

Description Producer: Nicolas Feuillatte Region: Champagne Country: France Type: Champagne Grape varieties: 40 % Chardonnay 40 % Pinot Noir 20 % Pinot Meunier Vineyard: The success of the brand’s first vintages were evident and, in order to increase production levels, Feuillatte joined together with 4000 other growers. In 1986, Feuillatte sold his business to form the CV-CNF, which at the time consisted of 5000 growers. The CV-CNF now has access to more than 2250 hectares (5560 acres), encompassing 13 grand cru vineyards, 33 premier cru and others from the Champagne appellation. Grapes are hand-picked and include three varieties: Chardonnay (25%), Pinot noir (25%) and Pinot Meunier (50%). The central production facility is located in Chouilly, with a capacity of up to 304,000 hectoliters (30.4 million liters). The site is modern and is fitted with stainless steel tanks, a gyropalette riddling system and disgorging facilities. Winemaking: The aging process for the non-vintage Brut Champagnes takes up to three years. In the case of the vintage Brut, the Champagne is allowed to age in barrels for up to five years, but this can extended to between 8-10 years for the Palmes d’Or labels. Tasting notes: Only made in the very best of vintages by winemaker Guillaume Roffiaen, the primary aromas are dominated by the signature style of the Cuvée Spéciale, with citrus fruit freshness and floral hints as its calling card. In the mouth there is immense freshness from the Chardonnay backbone, bringing apricot and delicate peach notes. The cris, fruity attack delivers a thirst-quenching sensation, with mineral notes stimulating the taste buds. The mid-palate is perfectly balanced, with the silky Meunier paving the way for a surprising aromatic finale of great depth and complexity, from the well-structured Pinot Noir. Food parings: Sellfish, Crab, Lobster, Mild and soft cheese Alcohol degree: 12% Vol.