Delamotte Blanc de Blancs 2012

Selected for its richness and cellaring potential, Delamotte Blanc de Blancs vintage comes from a long line of great wines, offering gourmets greatest champagne pairings.

THE VINTAGE

January to June 2012 saw almost every one of the most feared climate events that can afflict the Champagne vineyards: winter and spring frosts, early then late spring start, torrential downpours, hailstorms, and a cold snap during flowering. By mid-July, though, things had stabilized, with a spell of proper summer weather, beneficial to ripening. Full ripening began in mid-August, and continued sustained and regular through harvest, which in the Côte des Blancs began on 17 September. In 2012, low yields meant excellent quality. Once the chardonnays were brought in, there were reliable predictions of this being a great vintage. Time is on their side.

TASTING NOTES

On the eye: In the glass it immediately shows its impatience. Delicate, thin and vivid bubbles are quick to form an elegant, pale gold crown at the top of the glass.

On the nose: It gives off an irresistible sensation of freshness. Aromas of lemon, English candy, and lychee, along with a suggestion of white flowers, waft from the glass.

On the palate: It is both creamy and sharp and is prolonged by a long mineral finish, punctuated by a bitter orange peel.

PAIRING

Truffle stuffed chicken in a Suprême sauce or equally a simple truffle camembert or brie. And why not a cream of cep mushroom soup with a pastry lid?