Champagne is an enduring, delightful classic. Presently, it is a key figure at any holiday occasion, but especially on New Years Eve. Over the ensuing centuries, as New Year’s Eve has evolved from a religious festivity to a secular one, the concept of a drink fine enough for the gods has become intertwined with champagne’s reputation as a celebratory accompaniment. And that reputation is what champagne continues to offer, with just the action of popping a bottle a sure sign of celebration to come.
Since the time of ancient Babylon, 4000 years ago, the grand celebration of the New Year has been an integral part of society. They marked the occasion of the first new moon after the Winter Equinox (December 21st) with a massive religious festival called Akitu. In 46 B.C., the emperor Julius Caesar instituted January 1 as the first day of the year, to honor the month’s namesake: Janus, the Roman god of beginnings, whose two faces allowed him to look back into the past and forward into the future, a symbol of reflection and renewal.
Today, throughout the world, many cultures celebrate the new year in their own way. In Spanish-speaking countries, people bolt down a dozen grapes-symbolizing their hopes for the months ahead. In many parts of the world, traditional New Year’s dishes feature legumes, which are thought to resemble coins and herald future financial success; with lentils in Italy and black-eyed peas in the southern United States. Pork appears on the New Year’s Eve table in Cuba, Austria, Portugal and other countries, with the pig representing prosperity, while ring-shaped cakes, a sign that the year has come full circle, round out the feast in the Netherlands, Mexico, and Greece.
Other customs that are common worldwide include watching fireworks and singing songs to welcome the new year, including the ever-popular “Auld Lang Syne”. In the United States, our most iconic New Year’s tradition is the dropping of the giant ball at midnight in New York City’s Times Square. Millions of people around the world watch the event, which has taken place almost every year since 1907. And just as the ball drops every year, popping the cork and toasting with another bottle of champagne as the clock strikes midnight is a tradition in many households around the world.
Though champagne isn’t exclusively for celebrations, celebrations are always for champagne. Whether you’re out on the town or at home watching the televised ball drop, raise a toast to health, happiness, and prosperity in the New Year!
Stocklist 750ml: $27 to $249
Ayala Champagne Brut Blanc de Blancs 2004 ($69.95) $59 special 36 bottles available
Winemaker notes “A very elegant wine combining character and delicacy. Pale gold in colour with a lively glint, its mousse is superb and displays very fine and distinguished necklaces of bubbles. ”
Margaine Brut Cuvee Traditonelle NV ($49.95) $36 special 3+ cases available
Wine Advocate 91 points “The NV Brut Cuvee Traditionelle shows fabulous intensity and sheer class. Citrus, flowers and crushed rock are some of the nuances that emerge from this beautifully delineated Champagne. A gorgeous, ethereal finish rounds things out in style. “
Alfred Gratien Blanc de Blancs 2007 ($99.95) $79 special 10 bottles left
Wine Spectator 93 points “Backed by intense and mouthwatering acidity, this firm version offers tightly knit flavors of lemon meringue, poached pear, pastry, with hints of hazelnut and coconut. Shows fine texture, and a smoky, mineral-driven base. Drink now through 2020”
Alfred Gratien Champagne Brut NV ($49.95) $36 special 23 bottles left
Wine Spectator 93 points “A bright, balanced version, with a streak of minerality and a pleasant juiciness to flavors of black currant, poached apple, brioche, grilled plum and crystallized honey. Hints of candied lemon zest and grated coconut ride the fine texture on the finish. Drink now through 2020.”
Alfred Gratien Cuvee Paradis (2005) NV ($149.95) $119 special 9 bottles left
Wine Spectator 94 points “A lovely thread of ginger, star anise, cardamom and clove spice unravels through flavors of toasted almond, tangy apple puree, black raspberry, pastry, coconut and candied lemon zest. ”
Alfred Gratien Millesime 1996 ($199.95) $159 special 6 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “… Everything is in the right place. Rich, voluptuous, yet also structured, the 1996 impresses for its superb overall balance. There is lovely complexity in the glass..”
Alfred Gratien Millesime 1997 ($199.95) $149 special 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “Gratien’s 1997 Brut Millesime impresses for its direct, frank personality and huge fruit. An infant today, the 1997 is surprising for its youth. The aromas and flavors remain quite primary in this rich, vibrant Champagne…”
Alfred Gratien Millesime 1998 ($199.95) $159 special 7 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “… Suggestions of white truffles, apricot jam, hazelnuts, hard candy and dried flowers wrap around the gorgeous, striking finish. “
Bereche Reflet D’Antan Brut NV ($149.95) $99 special 20 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94 points ” At once rich yet weightless, it embodies a sense of pure aesthetic beauty that is hard to do justice to with mere words. ..”
Billiot Reserve Brut Grand Cru NV ($59.95) $49 special 11 bottles left
Wine Spectator 93 points “Richly spiced, with a skein of ground clove, ginger and cardamom winding through flavors of dried apricot and apple, currant candy, passion fruit and lemon zest….”
Billiot Cuvee Laetitia Brut NV ($99.95) $79 special 5 bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “…subtle notes of blood orange, vanilla and almond in this exuberant Champagne, which shows good balance and an appealing juiciness that pushes through to the long, mouthwatering finish.”
Boizel Joyau de France Brut 1996 ($149.95) $99 special 4 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay Roasted hazelnuts and biscuity aromas, quite a bit of earthy character, chalk, wet pebbles, a little bit of wild strawberries. Crisp, fine bubs, great intensity. Long minerally finish.”
Bollinger Brut Special Cuvee NV ($59.95) $49 special 3+ cases available
Wine Spectator 94 points “A rich, smoky Champagne, with hints of marzipan and fennel seed accenting honeyed malt, bread dough, baked apple and gingersnap flavors…”
Bollinger La Grande Annee Brut 2004 ($149.95) $119 special 18 bottles left
Wine Spectator 94 points “Firm, with well-cut acidity and a fine texture, this is aromatic, delivering a skein of ground spice and graphite notes that mesh seamlessly with the flavors of black currant, black cherry, toasted almond, financier, honey and smoky mineral..”
Cedric Bouchard Inflorescence Val Vilaine Blanc de Noir NV ($79.95) $66 special 2+ cases available
Cedric Bouchard Roses de Jeanne Haute Lemble 2009($149.95) $119 special 5 bottles available
All of Bouchard’s wines are characterized by uniquely soil-driven personalities. The wines are produced with very low or no dosage, with the goal of allowing the unique terroir of each wine to take center stage.
Chartogne-Taillet Cuvee Heurtebise Blanc de Blancs NV ($89.95) $66 special 2+ cases available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “… Racy and precise, offering lively, impressively deep flavors of Meyer lemon and pear. Closes with firm grip and excellent mineral-driven persistence.”
De Sousa Brut Reserve Blanc de Blancs NV ($59.95) $49 special 23 bottles available
Burghound 90 points “…There is a clean, cool and crisp flavor profile and the mousse is relatively fine plus there is an attractive hint of citrus that adds lift on the notably austere finish…”
De Sousa Brut Tradition NV ($39.95) $33 special 19 bottles available
Burghound 89 points “Distinctly yeasty aromas of peach, pear and green apple precede the full-bodied flavors that are supported by a borderline aggressive mousse though it seems to work well as the moderately dry finish is refreshing and delicious. Despite the very savory flavors the overall impression is clean and crisp.”
De Sousa Cuvee 3A Extra Brut NV ($59.95) $49 special 29 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “With grapes from the three villages of Aÿ, Avize and Ambonnay, this blend of 50/50 Chardonnay and Pinot Noir is a strict and firm wine, very aromatic, beautifully ripe with some roundness. Flavors of tropical fruits mix with concentrated minerality. For aging.”
De Sousa Cuvee de Caudalies 2006 ($219.95) $166 special 12 bottles left
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “…Shows surprising vivacity for its power, offering intense orchard and citrus fruit flavors and a touch of iodine. Closes on a leesy note, with excellent thrust, a savory character and a touch of honeysuckle.”
De Sousa Cuvee des Caudalies NV ($79.96) $59 special 23 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 94 points “A blend of 13 vintages, beautifully ripe and round, even with some maturity. Fresh citric fruit cuts through the richness and flavors of pineapple..”
Demarne-Frison Lalore Blanc de Blancs NV ($69.95) $59 special 8 bottles available
Lalore is all Chardonnay from Portlandian soil that results in a deep, rich blanc de blancs that is vinified in small barrels previously used for Chablis, using indigenous yeasts.
Deutz Amour de Deutz 2005 ($199.95) $139 special 2 bottles left
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Bright yellow-gold. A heady, complex bouquet evokes dried citrus fruits, quince, white flowers and iodine, with a hint of truffle in the background. Shows both power and finesse, offering lively Meyer lemon, orange pith and fresh fig flavors. The floral quality builds with air and carries through a very long, mineral-accented finish.”
Deutz Blanc de Blancs 2007 ($79.95) $69 special 19 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Light, bright straw. Lemon zest, green apple and chalky minerals on the fragrant nose. Dry and precise, offering energetic citrus and orchard fruit flavors that pick up anise and honeysuckle nuances with air. Closes stony and long, with lingering floral and iodine notes.”
Deutz Cuvee William Deutz 2000 ($149.95) $115 special 18 bottles left
Winemaker’s notes “The Cuvee William Deutz is a tribute to the brand’s founder. Its distinctive power gives it a special place amongst the Deutz range. Intensely seductive, with a bright golden hue… ”
Dom Perignon Jeff Koons Brut 2004 ($249.95) $179 special 5 bottles left
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The 2004 Dom Pérignon continues to develop beautifully. A vibrant, focused Champagne, the 2004 clearly reflects the personality of the year. Freshly cut flowers, white peaches and pears are woven together in a Champagne that impresses for its focus and energy. Chiseled saline note support the crystalline finish. …”
Dom Perignon Oenotheque 1996 ($399.95) $319 special 1 bottle left
Wine Advocate 97 points “… At first deceptively understated, the wine turns positively explosive and layered on the palate, showing remarkable tension, elegance and power, all wrapped around a seriously intense frame. The balance between fruit and acidity is awesome… “
Fleury Brut Millesime 1990 ($199.95) $139 special 5 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Aromatic notes of ocean brine and white truffle announce this vibrant Champagne, which layers flavors of candied lemon, dried papaya, smoked almond, crystallized honey and pound cake. Offers a detailed texture and finely meshed acidity. Drink now through 2022”
Fleury Brut Nature Symphonie D’Europe 1990 (159.95) $139 special 9 bottles left
Wine Advocate 94 points “… Floral notes develop later, adding lift and freshness, but this remains a rich, full-bodied wine endowed with stunning power and plenty of unbridled intensity. Honey, almonds and flowers are some of the many nuances that are wrapped into the layered, textured finish. “
Fleury Brut Cepages Blanc 2004 ($79.95) $69 special 3+ cases available
Wine Advocate 93 points “Another gorgeous wine, the 2004 Brut Cepages Blancs (Chardonnay) is stunningly beautiful. Rich, deep and layered, the 2004 comes alive in the glass…”
Fleury Extra Brut Cepages Blanc 1990 ($169.95) $129 special 8 bottles left
Wine Spectator 94 points “Firm, fresh and aging gracefully, this offers beautiful harmony between the pointillism-like texture, mouthwatering acidity and finely layered flavors of baked peach, oyster shell, candied orange zest, brioche, ground ginger, with a hint of maple syrup. ..”
Fleury Extra Brut Millesime 1995 ($109.95) $89 special 2+ cases left
Stephen Tanzer 93 points ” At once tangy and rich, displaying lively citrus and orchard fruit flavors buffered by deeper honey and floral qualities. …”
Francois Bedel Dis Vin Secret NV ($79.95) $59 special 6 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points ” Pungent, highly aromatic bouquet evokes peach nectar, poached pear, vanilla and honeysuckle…”
Francoise Bedel Entre Ciel Et Terre ($84.95) $69 special 8 bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “Mineral flavors and a silvery, citrus edge, with hints of iodine, are backed by a vibrant structure. Honey and nascent coffee notes play out on the long finish.”
Jacquesson Brut Avize Champ Cain 2004 ($249.95) $219 special 12 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 96 points ” A rich, creamy wine, the 2004 fills out its frame beautifully. Layers of vanilla, pencil shavings, peach, apricot and white flowers all flesh out in the glass. Rich and powerful the Avize impresses for its intensity and pure pedigree. ..”
Jacquesson Brut Ay Vauzelle Terme 2004 ($299.95) $249 special 2 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 96 points “The house’s 2004 Brut Ay Vauzelle Terme (100% Pinot Noir) is gracious on the palate. Rich and creamy at first, then turning more delicate with time in the glass, the 2004 stands out for its impeccable balance. Small red berries, kirsch, rose petals and mint are all alive in the glass…”
Jacquesson Brut Dizy Corne Beautray 2004 ($249.95) $219 special 12 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “The 2004 Brut Dizy Corne Bautray is remarkable for many reasons. One of those is just how vivid the flavors are. An utterly seamless wine, the 2004 Corne Bautray impresses for its exceptional overall balance. ..”
Jacquesson Extra Brut Cuvee 736 NV ($79.96) $66 special 22 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 95 points “I had been dying to drink – not taste – Jacquesson’s Brut Cuvee 736, follwing my visit to the domaine a few months ago. The bottle was every bit as great as I remembered. Built on a base of 2008, the 736 was brilliant, focused and chiseled from the very first taste. What a wine!”
Jose Michel Brut Pinot Meunier NV ($49.95) $39 special 22 bottles available
Burghound 90 points “… indeed fresher than the straight NV Brut with attractive floral and citrus suffused notes that can also be found on the moderately effervescent flavors that also are agreeably dry and crisp on the sappy and lingering finish…
Aubry Premier Cru Brut NV ($39.95) $33 special 5+ cases available
Josh Raynolds 91 points “Sappy, penetrating citrus fruit and floral flavors are given a refreshingly bitter character by notes of pear skin and peach pit, with a waxy note coming up on the back half…”
Aubry Ivoire et Ebene Brut 2008 ($69.95) $59 special 21 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points ” The Ivoire et Ebene is 60% Chardonnay (vinified in oak), 20% Pinot Noir and 20% Pinot Meunier. All the elements are beautifully balanced from start to finish…. “
Laherte Les Clos Extra Brut NV ($79.95) $69 special 8 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Pale gold. Lime zest, lemongrass and white pepper on the highly perfumed nose. Big and powerful yet precise and light on its feet, with very good cut to its citrus fruit and pear flavors. A note of bitter quinine adds grip to the very long, mineral-dominated finish.”
Laherte Les Empreintes Extra Brut NV ($59.95) $45 special 23 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Dry and linear on entry, then fleshier in the mid-palate, offering ripe orchard fruit, orange and fig flavors underscored by chalky minerals. Impressively pure, precise Champagne with resonating citrus and mineral notes on the finish.”
Marie-Courtin Concordance (2010) NV ($99.95) $79 special 3+ cases available
Marie-Courtin Concordance (2009) NV ($109.95) $79 special 3+ cases available
Wine Advocate 94 points ” Pears, apples, white flowers, spices and crushed rocks burst from the glass as this powerful, authoritative wine shows off its distinctive personality. …”
Marie-Courtin Resonance Extra Brut NV ($69.95) $49 special 3+ cases available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “Green apples, pears, mint and white flowers meld together in the NV (2010) Extra Brut Resonance, 100% Pinot Noir from 35-40 year-old vines. Citrus, lime and a host of bright aromas and flavors suggest Chablis with bubbles. The Resonance is simply bristling with energy and focus today. This is a fabulous wine from proprietress Dominique Moreau. This bottle was disgorged in May 2013.”
Mousse et Fils Blanc de Nirs Noire Reserve NV ($49.95) $39 special 10 bottles available
Burghound 89 points ” A fresh, cool and moderately yeasty nose features notes of apple, citrus and white flowers. There is good complexity to the delicious flavors that are shaped by a full-on mousse that confers a clean and crisp mouth feel to the lemony finish. This isn’t particularly refined but I like the frank character.”
Paul Bara Reserve Brut Grand Cru NV ($49.95) $39 special 3+ cases left
Stephen Tanzer 90 points “Light yellow-gold. Mineral-accented aromas of pear and peach pit, with smoke and floral qualities adding complexity. Sappy, penetrating redcurrant and orchard fruit flavors are lifted by zesty minerality and pick up smokiness with air. Finishes sappy and long, with lingering floral and mineral qualities.”
Paul Bara Comtesse Marie de France 2000 ($149.95) $99 special 5 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Bright yellow-gold. Sexy, pungent aromas of dried orchard fruits, melon, raspberry and potpourri, with a spicy quality that gains strength with air. Lush, sappy and penetrating, with very good depth to its spice-accented pear and red berry flavors….”
Phillipponnat Clos des Goisses Brut 2001 ($219.95) $199 special 12 bottles left
Wine Advocate 93+ points ” Dried apricots, spices, licorice, sweet herbs and tobacco add elements of exoticism on the finish. This is going to be a fascinating wine to follow, although I don’t think it will reach the heights of the 2002…”
Philliponnat Clos des Goisses Brut 2004 ($249.95) $219 special 12 bottles left
Phillipponnat Clos des Goisses Brut 2002 ($299.95) $249 special 10 bottles left
Wine Advocate 96 points ” …Dried pears, apricots, flowers, red berries and spices are some of the many notes that inform this towering, aristocratic wine. Layers of fruit built to the huge, creamy finish. This is a great showing from Philipponnat.”
Pierre Peters Cuvee Speciale Chetillons 2005 ($149.95) $99 special 3+ cases available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points ” Heady aromas of fresh nectarine, lemon, honeysuckle and ginger are complemented by deeper notes of smoky lees and brioche…”
Pierre Peters Cuvee Speciale Chetillons 2006 ($149.95) $109 special 3+ cases left
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “Another brilliant wine, the 2006 Blanc de Blancs Les Chetillons is shaping up to be a stunner. Today it seems to have the density and power of the 2002 but in a more linear style that brings to mind some of the energy of the 2004….”
Piollot Cuvee de Reserve Extra Brut NV ($39.95) $27 special 5+ cases available
Winemaker notes“..beautiful light golden colour, the citrus aromas and the silky freshness on the palate and very good length. The base wine is made from 50% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay and 10% of Pinot Meunier providing additional richness.”
Pol Roger Brut Sir Winston Churchill 2000 ($249.95) $219 special 8 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94 points “The first thing that is evident about the 2000 Brut Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill is its finesse and total silkiness. The 2000 is a rich, creamy and deeply expressive Winston Churchill. I don’t see the 2000 being an especially long-term ager, but it is wonderfully radiant and open today. Hints of pastry, spice, apricots and succulent ripe pears blossom on the expansive, broad-shouldered finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030.”
Rene Geoffrey Blanc de Rose NV ($109.95) $89 special 9 bottles
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Light orange-pink. High-pitched, incisive aromas of fresh red berries, blood orange, white pepper and rose, with a strong mineral component…”
Rene Geoffrey Cuvee Volupte Brut 2006 ($84.95) $66 special 2 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “… The Volupte is 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir. The partial use of oak (10%) gives the wine a measure of additional richness and volume, especially on the finish. Disgorgement date: June 2012. “
Rene Geoffrey Brut Empreinte 2006 ($59.95) $49 special 5 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “The NV Brut Empreinte emerges from the glass with beautifully delineated fruit, great body and terrific overall balance. Sweet red berries, flowers and mint are some of the nuances that are woven into a rich fabric of notable class…”
Savart L’Accomplie Brut NV ($59.95) $41.90 special 16 bottles left
Savart L’Ouverture Blanc de Noir Brut NV ($49.95) $37 special 22 bottles left
Coming from Montagne de Reims, the wines tend to be Pinot Noir-driven, but the Chardonnay they make is also very tasty. The winemaking is entirely adapted to the different wines produced. L’Accomplie is 80% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay, while L’Ouverture is 100% Pinot Noir.
Selosse Initial Blanc de Blancs NV ($249.95) $189 special 5 bottles left
Stephen Tanzer 92 points “Bright gold. An exotically perfumed bouquet evokes dried pear, honey, lemon curd, truffle and candied ginger. On the palate, intense mineral-accented orchard and pit fruit flavors pick up smokiness and nuttiness with air. Finishes smooth and extremely long, with subtle smokiness, a brown butter quality and a whiplash of minerality. ”
Ulysse Collin Blanc de Blancs Pierreieres 2009 ($89.95) $69 special 11 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “… An intensely mineral-driven, palate-staining finish rounds things out in style. To me, the Perrieres is the quintessential Collin Champagne. The aromas and flavors remain utterly vivid and compelling in the glass. This is a dazzling showing from Olivier Collin.”
Vilmart Coeur de Cuvee Brut 2003 ($199.95) $119 special 10 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 94 points “Light yellow…White peach, quinine and jasmine on the nose and in the mouth, complicated by suggestions of exotic fruits and vanilla bean. Graceful and lively for the vintage, with the balance to age.”
Vincent Couche Extra Brut Blanc de Blanc Nacre ($59.95) $49 special 12 bottles available
Vincent Couche Brut 2002 ($59.95) $49 special 11 bottles available
Vincent Couche is part of the upwelling of talent (and awakening to terroir) taking place in the extreme South of Champagne, and like a number of those growers most responsible, he farms biodynamically. Moreover, he has vineyards both in his base village of Buxeuil, and in distant Montgueux, a remote southern Champagne outpost with remarkable Chardonnay.
Vouette et Sorbee Extra Brut Fidele NV ($69.95) $49 special 18 bottles available
Wine Advocate 93 points “… Clean veins of minerality frame a huge, powerful finish imbued with the essence of Pinot. Weighty, rich and powerful, the 2009 impresses for its fabulous balance and inviting, utterly irresistible personality.”
Ayala Champagne Brut Rose Majeur NV ($59.95) $39 special 3+ cases available
Stephen Tanzer 90 points ” …Silky and open-knit, offering tangy citrus fruit and red berry flavors and a hint of toastiness. Closes smooth, fruity and long, with good breadth and clarity.”
Ayala Champagne Brut Rose Nature NV ($99.95) $79 special 11 bottles available
Wine Spectator 91 points “Crisp, featuring juicy flavors of pomegranate, white raspberry, pastry dough and spice, with a lightly smoky mineral undertow. Well-meshed and balanced, with a delicate finish. “
Margaine Brut Rose NV ($59.95)$44 special 14 bottles available
Wine Advocate 90 points “The NV Rose presents an intriguing combination of ripe fruit and structure. This release is 2009 juice, and there is no shortage of fruit from that radiant year, but there is also plenty of underlying minerality. “
Billiot Rose Brut Grand Cru NV ($79.95) $59 special 2 bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “An undercurrent of minerality supports ripe black cherry and black raspberry flavors, with hints of pastry, cream and candied grapefruit peel. Finely meshed and focused by vibrant acidity.”
De Sousa Caudalies Rose NV ($129.95) $109 special 3 bottles available
De Sousa Brut Rose NV ($59.95) $49 special 28 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Dark pink, with a hint of onion skin; the color of a red wine from Arbois, even darker than some. Deep and smoky on the nose, with a spicy, vinous raspberry and cherry tone verging on Burgundian in character. Quite spicy, the cherry and wild berry flavors tinged by notes of clove, mace, cracked pepper and cayenne. A singular wine that would go perfectly with pungent cheeses or cured meats. “
Delamotte Brut Rose NV ($69.95) $49 special 10 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 90 points “Orange-pink. Bright, mineral-driven aromas of blood orange, lemon and green apple, with notes of chalk and quinine adding vivacity. Firm and tightly wound, offering zesty citrus and orchard fruit flavors and a kiss of bitter redcurrant. Closes with dominant citrus flavors, very good clarity and lingering florality.”
Deutz Brut Rose 2008 ($69.95) $57 special 17 bottles available
Deutz Cuvee William Rose 2000 ($299.95) $219 special 5 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “Bright pink. Pungent, expansive aromas of dried red berries and cherry, with a brighter suggestion of blood orange and a hint of anise. Deeply pitched citrus and red berry flavors are complicated by notes of candied rose and white pepper and gain spiciness with air. Finishes on a refreshingly bitter citrus pith note, with excellent persistence. Seems fully mature but there’s no rush to drink this.”
Dom Perignon Jeff Koons Rose 2003 ($349.95) $299 special 2 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 93 points “The 2003 Dom Pérignon Rosé is another wine that has come together quite nicely over the last few months.With time in the glass, the richness of the fruit becomes more pronounced, while the tannin from the red grapes is also noticeable….”
Legras & Haas Rose Brut NV ($69.95) $59 special 9 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 90 points “Light orange. Spice-accented aromas and flavors of red berries and candied flowers, with a subtle mineral note adding vivacity. Bright and nervy, with strong finishing cut and lingering rose and orange zest notes. Offers the flavor depth to handle richer foods but also has the liveliness to work by itself. “
Moet Chandon Grand Vintage Brut Rose 2004 ($89.95) $59 special 19 bottles available
Wine Enthusiast 93 points “This serious, ripe offering is packed with red berry and stone fruit flavors. It also has complex touches of toast and acidity, producing a sense of dryness. This is finely balanced and is now ready to drink, but it will also likely age for a few more years.”
Paul Bara Brut Special Club Rose 2006 ($109.95) $89 special 7 bottles available
A blend of two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay. It was aged on lees for 5 years and nicely combines flowery aromatics with a palate that is elegant.
Pierre Peters Rose for Albane NV ($89.95) $69 special 15 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Light pink. Strikingly complex aromas of redcurrant, dark cherry, musky herbs and underbrush, with a hint of blood orange. Firm red fruit flavors are braced by tangy minerals, with a repeating blood orange note adding a refreshingly bitter edge. A solid, dry and stony midweight that finishes with impressive clarity and spicy thrust.”
Rene Geoffrey Rose de Saignee Brut NV ($89.95) $69 special 9 bottles
Wine Advocate 93 points “The NV Brut Rose de Saignee is 100% Pinot Noir from the 2008 vintage. The rich, vinous style is beautifully balanced by the coolness and minerality of the year. This is a gorgeous, complete Champagne bursting with personality and sheer class. The wine boasts fabulous depth and remarkable nuance without ever coming across as heavy. To be sure, this is an intense, bold style that needs to be paired with food. Disgorged July 5, 2011. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2018.”
Veuve Clicquot Vintage Rose 2004 ($99.95) $71.90 special 4 bottles available
Wine Spectator 92 points “Soft and creamy, the fine texture carries flavors of black currant and wild strawberry, with hints of financier, citrus zest and smoky mineral. Very appealing for its overall finesse and finely tuned, mouthwatering acidity. Drink now through 2022.”
Vilmart Cuvee Rubis Brut NV ($84.95) $75 special 21 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points “90% pinot noir and 10% chardonnay): Bright, orange-tinged pink. Sexy, high-pitched aromas of blood orange, strawberry, potpourri and minerals; smells like an elegant, stony red Burgundy. Dry and precise, with very good depth and focus to its sappy red fruit, orange zest and floral flavors. Shows a touch of vanilla on the impressively long, clinging finish, with the strawberry note repeating.”
Vincent Couche Brut Rose NV ($59.95)$49 special 6 bottles available
Importer notes “75% Pinot Noir & 25% Chardonnay, all from the 2009 vintage in Couche’s biodynamically farmed parcels in Buxeuil and Montgeux. 42% was barrel fermented, the balance in tank. “
A. Margaine Blanc de Blancs 2006 1.5L ($159.95) $137 special 13 bottles available Importer notes “Margaine’s vintage Blanc de Blancs in magnum is actually the 2006 “Spécial Club”, bottled in a traditional shaped magnum, and labeled as Blanc de Blancs. In the 2006 Spécial Club malolactic fermentation was blocked, creating a wine of precision and elegance. “
Bereche Reflet D’Antan Brut NV 1.5L ($249.95) $219 special 2 bottles
Antonio Galloni 94 points “…Bérèche’s Reflet d’Antan remains one of the most unique and compelling wines in Champagne. Reflet d’Antan is a perpetual solera, based on the 2008 vintage in this release. This bottle was disgorged in October 2012. Dosage was 6 grams per liter.”
Billiot Reserve Brut Grand Cru NV 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special 24 bottles
Wine Spectator 93 points “Richly spiced, with a skein of ground clove, ginger and cardamom winding through flavors of dried apricot and apple, currant candy, passion fruit and lemon zest. Beautiful texture and balance here, followed by a long and mouthwatering, mineral-tinged finish. Drink now through 2020. 300 cases imported.”
De Sousa Brut Reserve Blanc de Blancs NV 1.5L ($139.95) $99 special 13 bottles available
Burghound 90 points “A mature and distinctly yeasty nose also offers up notes of brioche, baked apple and pear nuances. There is a clean, cool and crisp flavor profile and the mousse is relatively fine plus there is an attractive hint of citrus that adds lift on the notably austere finish. I like the austerity but be aware that it’s sufficiently pronounced that this will not be for everyone. To my taste this is drinking perfectly well now.”
Demarne-Frison Goustan NV 1.5L (4149.95) $99 special 10 bottles
Demarne- Frison Lalore Blanc de Blancs NV 1.5L ($149.95) $125 special 2 bottles available
Demarne-Frison wines are rich and generous, showing both the character of the Aube and the influence of natural viticulture, and they are keenly soil-expressive, adding to their overall feeling of liveliness and energy. The Lalore is 100% Chardonnay while the Goustan is 100% Pinot Noir.
Deutz Brut Millesime 2007 1.5L ($129.95) $109 special 6 bottles
Deutz Blanc de Blancs 2007 1.5L ($159.95) $139 special 6 bottles
Stephen Tanzer 91 points “Light, bright straw. Lemon zest, green apple and chalky minerals on the fragrant nose. Dry and precise, offering energetic citrus and orchard fruit flavors that pick up anise and honeysuckle nuances with air. Closes stony and long, with lingering floral and iodine notes.”
Deutz Brut Classic NV 1.5L($99.95) $79 special 5 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 90 points “Light yellow. Toasty lees, poached pear and lemon rind on the pungent nose. Offers an array of sappy citrus and orchard fruit flavors and becomes spicier with air. The lemon and lees notes come back on the broad, clear finish.”
Dom Perignon 2000 1.5L ($499.95) $399 special 3 bottles available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 2000 Brut Dom Perignon is a gorgeous, seductive wine that floats on the palate with remarkable grace. Toasty aromas meld into freshly cut flowers, apricots and pears, with sweet notes of mint and licorice that linger on the long finish. This perfumed, inviting Dom Perignon is elegance personified, and in this vintage the wine fully merits its lofty reputation.”
Eric Rodez Blanc de Noir NV 1.5L ($149.95)$119 special 2 bottles available
Winery notes “This Brut Champagne is elaborated from Pinot Noir harvests only. For this cuvee, we generally blend 5 to 6 vintaged productions, to make sure the cuvee will keep its character. It is even better balanced and meatier than the Blanc de Blancs. As it is complex, with a slight hint of red fruits, very elegant, it offers a longer finish than the wines previously described. It is of a light gold color, with hints of copper. If offers a fruity nose, together with flavors recalling spring after rotation. The attack is dense, meaty, filling the palate with flavors of citrus fruits.””
Fleury Brut Millesime 1990 1.5L ($299.95) $259 special 3 bottles available
Wine Spectator 94 points “Aromatic notes of ocean brine and white truffle announce this vibrant Champagne, which layers flavors of candied lemon, dried papaya, smoked almond…”
Fleury Brut Nature Symphonie D’Europe 1990 1.5L ($379.95) $299 special 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 1990 Extra Brut Symphonie d’Europe (Pinot Noir) opens with the most extraordinary bouquet. Smoke, graphite, apricot jam and honeysuckle all burst from the glass…”
Pierre Peters Reserve Blanc de Blancs NV 1.5L ($149.95) $119 special 42 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “… shows fabulous cut and definition in its fruit, expressive aromatics all backed up by plenty of underlying structure. A bright, mineral laced finish rounds things out in style. ”
Pierre Peters Cuvee Reserve Blanc de Blancs NV 3 Liter ($429.95) $319 special 5 bottles available
Burghound 93 points “A stunningly elegant nose of pure floral, Granny Smith apples, spice and freshly sliced lemon complements to perfection the intense and equally pure flavors ..”
Pierre Peters Cuvee Speciale Chetillons 2005 1.5L ($249.95) $199 special 5 bottles available
Stephen Tanzer 93 points ” Bright citrus zest and quince flavors give way to richer melon and pit fruits with air while maintaining impressive verve and cut. ”
Pierre Peters Cuvee Speciale Chetillons 2006 1.5L ($279.95) $249 special 3 bottles available
Antonio Galloni 94+ points “…hints of almonds and white flowers begin to emerge, but the 2006 remains a powerful Champagne built on explosive structure. Readers who can be patient will be rewarded with a stunning Champagne.”
Pol Roger Brut Sir Winston Churchill 1999 1.5L ($449.95) $399 special 1 bottle available
Wine Advocate 94 points “The 1999 Brut Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill, from magnum, is wonderfully rich and expansive… The wine continues to gain focus and breadth through to the enticing, brilliant finish… “
Rene Geoffrey Extra Brut 2002 1.5L ($319.95) $279 special 5 bottles available
Wine Advocate 92 points “Layers of ripe, expressive varietal fruit flow from this rich, dramatic Champagne. A caressing, multi-dimensional finish rounds things out in style… ”
Vilmart Cuvee Creation Brut 1998 1.5L ($349.95) $289 special 1 bottle available
Stephen Tanzer 92 points ” Round and fleshy, offering deep but precise apple and pear flavors and bracing citrus zest bite. Really expands across the palate while maintaining energy and focus…”
Vincent Couche Brut 2002 ($119.95) $99 special 15 bottles available
Importer notes “50% Pinot Noir, 50% Chardonnay, all from Buxeuil, and all from the outstanding 2002 vintage. 7 grams dosage, disgorged in April 2012 – over nine years on the lees!”
Complete reviews online:
www.vinopoliswineshop.com