Champagne, France, Alsace
Champagne is a wine region to the north-east of Paris where wine has been grown since the Romans first planted in the 5th century and the region is most well known for the Sparkling wine that goes by the regions name.
Champagne is made from 3 grapes. The two red grapes Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and the white grape Chardonnay. All three are commonly blended though a ‘blanc de blanc’ meaning ‘white from white’ indicates that only Chardonnay was used. Conversely a ‘blanc de noir’ or ‘white from black’ indicates that the two red grapes were used.
A common misconception is that Champagne was invented by Dom Pérignon. Although this is not the case, he made considerable contributions to the quality and production methods used in the region. The very first bottles of Champagne were created by accident, and coined ‘the devil’s wine’ for all the popping corks. Sparkling wine in Australia was referred to as Champagne but this practise has long been disallowed.
Methode Champenoise is the traditional method by which Champagne is produced and if you see Millisime on a bottle, it represents the fact that the wine comes from a particular vintage rather than being blended, which is the more common practice.
Icons such as Dom Pérignon and Krug are world renowned, but we find as much pleasure in the smaller Champagne houses such as Gosset and Jacquinot. Magnums are perfect for the festive occasions and half bottles are also available.
The Alsace wine region is in the north-east of France and borders Germany. Although the region only accounts for 2% of France's vineyards it is responsible for producing some of the worlds finest white wines. Perhaps because of its Germanic influence, it is the only Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée region in France to produce mostly varietally labelled wines. In other words it is the only region in France where you're likely to see Pinot Gris, or Riesling denoted on the wine label. Another interesting note is that the region is the birthplace of biodynamic viticulture and the region still has the country's highest proportion of biodynamic producers.
Alsace gets plenty of sunshine hours, with a deep continental climate and superb meso-climate created by the sheltering presence of the Vosges Mountains. This allows the full spectrum of aromatic flavours to show in the grapes. The soils are quite diverse, with 13 different soil types in all.
The noble grapes of Alsace are Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Sylvaner, Muscat Ottonel and Muscat d'Alsace in the whites, and Pinot Noir in the reds. Recent decades have seen an increase in Riesling, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir plantings, while the classical Sylvaner grape is on the decline.
Wines are produced under three different appelations or AOCs:
High quality liquers and spirits are also made in Alsace by producers such as Bertrand and Vedrenne.
Champagne is made from 3 grapes. The two red grapes Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier and the white grape Chardonnay. All three are commonly blended though a ‘blanc de blanc’ meaning ‘white from white’ indicates that only Chardonnay was used. Conversely a ‘blanc de noir’ or ‘white from black’ indicates that the two red grapes were used.
A common misconception is that Champagne was invented by Dom Pérignon. Although this is not the case, he made considerable contributions to the quality and production methods used in the region. The very first bottles of Champagne were created by accident, and coined ‘the devil’s wine’ for all the popping corks. Sparkling wine in Australia was referred to as Champagne but this practise has long been disallowed.
Methode Champenoise is the traditional method by which Champagne is produced and if you see Millisime on a bottle, it represents the fact that the wine comes from a particular vintage rather than being blended, which is the more common practice.
Icons such as Dom Pérignon and Krug are world renowned, but we find as much pleasure in the smaller Champagne houses such as Gosset and Jacquinot. Magnums are perfect for the festive occasions and half bottles are also available.
The Alsace wine region is in the north-east of France and borders Germany. Although the region only accounts for 2% of France's vineyards it is responsible for producing some of the worlds finest white wines. Perhaps because of its Germanic influence, it is the only Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée region in France to produce mostly varietally labelled wines. In other words it is the only region in France where you're likely to see Pinot Gris, or Riesling denoted on the wine label. Another interesting note is that the region is the birthplace of biodynamic viticulture and the region still has the country's highest proportion of biodynamic producers.
Alsace gets plenty of sunshine hours, with a deep continental climate and superb meso-climate created by the sheltering presence of the Vosges Mountains. This allows the full spectrum of aromatic flavours to show in the grapes. The soils are quite diverse, with 13 different soil types in all.
The noble grapes of Alsace are Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Sylvaner, Muscat Ottonel and Muscat d'Alsace in the whites, and Pinot Noir in the reds. Recent decades have seen an increase in Riesling, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir plantings, while the classical Sylvaner grape is on the decline.
Wines are produced under three different appelations or AOCs:
- - Alsace AOC: must be made from one of the 8 permitted grape varieties in the appellation (white, rosé and red wines)
- - Alsace Grand Cru: Introduced in 1983, currently recognising 50 Grand Cru sites. It is the pinnacle of Alsace, where topography, aspect and soil type must be in harmony along with a track record of producing excellent wines.
- - Crémant d'Alsace: Appelation for sparkling wines, that can be both dry or sweet.
High quality liquers and spirits are also made in Alsace by producers such as Bertrand and Vedrenne.
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2016 in Alsace is considered a great Riesling vintage. Dry, fresh, elegant and well structured, it has a developed nose showing lemon and lime, with mineral tones. The palate has nice ripe fruit. White peach, quince, grapefruit and lemon with lovely ... Learn MoreTrimbach Riesling 2016$33.99 Per item -
2015 in Alsace is considered a great Riesling vintage. Dry, fresh, elegant and well structured, it has a developed nose showing lemon and lime, with mineral tones. The palate has nice ripe fruit. White peach, quince, grapefruit and lemon with lovely ... Learn MoreTrimbach Riesling 2015$34.99 Per itemOut of stock -
Moet & Chandon's most iconic Champagne and an absolute favourite around the world, Brut Imperial NV comprises over 100 different wines, with about 30% of them reserve wines, blended together to form this renowned house style which has been starting celebrations since 1869. With ... Learn MoreMoet Et Chandon Imperial Champagne Nv Gift Box$56.10 Per itemOut of stock -
Grapes are pressed for about 8 hours. Then they are vinified in big traditional Alsatian casks and ferment with natural yeasts. ... Learn MoreChapoutier Alsace Riesling 'Lieu-Dit Buehl' 2017 (En Primeur)$59.99 Per itemOut of stock -
A blend of 60% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Meunier, only from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards, this is exceptional quality Champagne for an unbelievable price! Offering notes of pear, hazelnut and subtle toasty spice on the nose, it follows ... Learn More -
The grapes are harvested by hand into 20kg trays. Fine with notes of plum, fresh tangerine citrus, grapefruit, with menthol and celery. Slender and crisp on the palate. This wine has a weave of salty bitters underscored by a dash ... Learn MoreChapoutier Alsace Riesling 'Lieu-Dit Berg' 2015$63.00 Per itemOut of stock -
Grapes are pressed for about 8 hours. Then they are vinified in big traditional Alsatian casks and ferment with natural yeasts. The nose exhibits exotic fruit aromas such as pineapple and mango with mineral notes of blossoms. The palate is powerful ... Learn MoreChapoutier Alsace Riesling 'Lieu-Dit Buehl' 2015$63.00 Per itemOut of stock -
Awarded best Champagne producer at the 2015 International Wine & Spirits Competition The Le Brun family live by the village of Bethon in the Marne. The memory of Madame Le Brun, who owned the castle in 1845, is still alive today. The house ... Learn MoreLe Brun De Neuville Blanc De Blancs Nv$69.99 Per itemOut of stock -
Made from 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Pinot Meuneir & 20% Chardonnay from Premier Cru vineyards, and aged for two years in bottle before release. Deep aromas of fresh fruits and hint of nuts. The taste is full bodied and rich with fruit though elegant ... Learn MoreChampagne Autreau Brut 1er Cru Champagne Nv$69.99 Per itemOut of stock -
100% Premier Cru fruit. 85% Chardonnay lends an elegant floral character as well as grapefruit and melon, but the 15% Pinot Noir (blended as red wine) gives the ruby red colour and adds flavours of red berries and a savoury complexity. The family ... Learn MoreChampagne Autreau Brut Premier Cru Rose NV$74.99 Per item -
100% Grand Cru fruit. Pinot Noir & Chardonnay blend. The nose is a combination of ripe citrus fruits with a buttery overtone and flowery finish. The flavours are fresh and vibrant, of peaches, melons and raspberry with light hazelnut nuance adding depth ... Learn MoreChampagne Autreau Grand Cru Champagne Nv$74.99 Per item -
Jean-Manuel Jacquinot obtained a degree in Oenology at the esteemed University of Reims. After this he became trainee oenologist at the world famous house of Veuve Clicquot. Today, Jean-Manuel has over 20 years of experience in making Champagne, is a Member ... Learn MoreChampagne Jacquinot 'Private Cuvee' Brut Nv$74.99 Per item -
Pierre Baillette is not just limited to the creation of high-quality champagne, but to preserve the most authentic values of the wine tradition of this legendary region. This refreshing and savory Champagne is loaded with flavors of citrus, white cherries, ... Learn MorePierre Baillette Brut le Village NV$79.00 Per item -
This vineyard was purchased around 2010 by Eric Kientzler and is quickly proving to be one of the most distinguished Rieslings in the fabulous line-up of spectacularly dry and mineral Rieslings at this address. The 2018 sports 6.6 gms RS which is balanced ... Learn MoreKientzler Schoenenberg 2018$79.00 Per itemOut of stock -
100% Chardonnay Grand Cru fruit sourced from the "White Hillside" Vineyards of the Autreau Estate. The family Autreau is an old family from Champillon - ancient documents certify their presence since 1670. This family is linked to the farming of the land ... Learn MoreChampagne Autreau Brut Blanc De Blancs 1er Cru Nv$79.99 Per item -
Only the juices from first pressing – the cuvées - are used. ... Learn MoreChampagne Drappier Brut Nature Nv$79.99 Per item -
Biodynamic and organic - A fine and complex blending excellent for aperitif. "Bright, appley and fragrant, this feels fresh and easy to drink, buttressed by taut, lively acidity. It finishes with brightly citrusy fragrance, its tangerine-like flavors showing energy and ... Learn MoreLaherte Freres 'Ultradition' Champagne Brut Nv$79.99 Per itemOut of stock -
GRAPES: 45% Pinot Noir, 35% Pinot Meunier, 20% Chardonnay. Intense aromas of fresh fruit typical of the Pinot varietals. Fruit aromas intermingle with pastry notes, a sign of excellent maturity. ... Learn MoreCanard Duchene 'Authentic' Brut Nv$81.99 Per itemOut of stock -
A beautifully crafted wine of balance, fine mousse and pleasant complexity. Initially the nose is precise, expressive and refreshing, with notes of citrus and yellow fruit; floral fragrances (vine flowers, elderflowers) and pastry aromas (brioche, toast, grilled almond) follow. On ... Learn MoreHenriot 'Souverain' Brut Nv Champagne$83.99 Per itemOut of stock -
**THIS ONLINE TASTING IS OVER**
This pack contains a bottle of 3 different wines to be opened during an online tasting held on Thursday the 22nd of October 2020. This event is all about the perfect summer ... Learn More
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"Louis Roederer Bruit Premier NV is a perennial favourite of mine. I love its biscuity character, its backbone and structure, which are more impressive than in virtually any other NV. But I do prefer to stash newly bought bottles away ... Learn MoreLouis Roederer Brut Premier Nv Champagne$84.99 Per itemOut of stock -
Cépages: 50% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Meunier Assemblage: 60% 2016 base, 40% from 2015 & 2014 Vineyard/Village: From the village of Merfy Malo: Partial Elevage: 40% Stainless Steel, 60% Oak barrel En Tirage Aging: 24 months ... Learn MoreChartogne-Taillet Cuvee Sainte Anne Brut NV$89.99 Per itemOut of stock -
100 per cent Chardonnay from the terroirs of Chavot, Vaudancourt, Voipreux 1er Cru and Epernay - all biodynamically farmed. Exuberant with lots of spicy white peach fruit, lemon pith and brown spice. The palate is crunchy and chalky with a delicious ... Learn MoreLaherte Freres Blanc De Blancs Champagne NV$89.99 Per itemOut of stock -
Vintage 2008 is based on a blend of Pinot Noir (36%), Chardonnay (32%) and Pinot Meunier (32%), from a number of different crus including Hautvilliers, Avize, Le Mesnil sur Oger, Ay, and Rilly-la-Montagne. Full of aromas of toast and orchard fruit compote. The wine ... Learn MoreCanard Duchene Vintage 2008$92.00 Per itemOut of stock -
"Appealing candied berry and citrus aromas. A hint of bread dough and mineral... Though rich, it's lively too, with a smooth texture and lingering finish." - Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator When to drink 2012 - 2015 ... Learn MoreLarmandier Bernier 'Latitude' Champagne Brut Nv$94.00 Per item -
The bottles of Blanc de Blancs remain for a period of 3-5 years in the calm and dark of the Henriot caves in Reims. Pure, concentrated and expressive, with floral (honeysuckle, orange flower, linden), fruity (lemon, dried apricot, almond) and ... Learn MoreHenriot Blanc De Blancs Nv Champagne$98.99 Per itemOut of stock -
The base wine is equal parts pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier from the'07 vintage, and 40% reserve wine is added prior to the wine being bottled for its second fermentation. The reserve wine has an average age of 10 years, so ... Learn MoreCharles Heidsieck Reserve Brut Nv$99.00 Per itemOut of stock -
Rich, toasty and opulent. Notes of almond and ripe yellow fruit with a precise minerality. Vilmart has obtained something of a cult status by Champagne lovers everywhere. It is seriously good for the price. A beautiful wine, but what of ... Learn MoreVilmart – Rilly-La-Montagne Grand Cellier Nv$99.00 Per itemOut of stock -
This kit contains a lovely bottles of wine as well as a Cuvee Wine Connoisseurs Collection and 850g Nurture Magnesium Bath & Foot Salt Soak as a Valentines pamper pack to spoil someone special!
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100% Grand Cru fruit from the villages of Chouilly and Ay. Only produced in exceptional years, of which 2014 was most definitely one. Chardonnay dominant, showing gorgeous white flowers, green apple and sweet caramel popcorn. A small percent of Pinot Noir adds ... Learn MoreChampagne Autreau Brut Reserve Grand Cru Vintage 2014$99.99 Per itemOut of stock -
The history of the Drappier family began in the 13th century, when Saint Bernard built a block of flats in Urville for the Abbey Clairvaux. The all new cuvée from Maison DRAPPIER is called Clarevallis, a tribute to the ... Learn More -
Jean-Manuel Jacquinot obtained a degree in Oenology at the esteemed University of Reims. After this he became trainee oenologist at the world famous house of Veuve Clicquot. Today, Jean-Manuel has over 20 years of experience in making Champagne, is a Member ... Learn MoreChampagne Jacquinot 'Cuvee' Blanc De Noirs Nv$99.99 Per item -
100% Grand Cru fruit from the villages of Chouilly and Ay. Only produced in exceptional years, of which 2013 was most definitely one. Chardonnay dominant, showing gorgeous white flowers, green apple and sweet caramel popcorn. A small percent of Pinot Noir adds ... Learn MoreChampagne Autreau Brut Grand Cru Vintage 2013$99.99 Per itemOut of stock -
The Brut Nature Rosé is a cuvée which will delight lovers of freshness, minerality and purity. On the nose, very evocative of strawberry and raspberry with a floral note of rose petals. The palate recalls red fruits and is ... Learn MoreChampagne Drappier Rose Brut Nature Nv$99.99 Per item -
Won "Grappe d'Or" in Guide Hachette (Top French Awards) - Best Wine of the year Tasted against 36,000 other wines. A complex, creamy, layered nose with icing sugar life. The palate has beautiful complexity and mouthwatering length, with flavours of biscuit ... Learn MoreGosset 'Grand Reserve' Brut Mv Champagne$99.99 Per item -
At Jacquesson we are fortunate to have some exceptional terroirs, all Premiers and Grands Crus from La Grande Vallee de la Marne and the Cote des Blancs. Our viticulture relies on time-honoured principles, we use only the cuvee from each ... Learn MoreJacquesson 'Cuvee No 742' Nv$105.00 Per itemOut of stock -
At Jacquesson we are fortunate to have some exceptional terroirs, all Premiers and Grands Crus from La Grande Vallee de la Marne and the Cote des Blancs. Our viticulture relies on time-honoured principles, we use only the cuvee from each ... Learn MoreJacquesson 'Cuvee No 741' Nv$105.00 Per itemOut of stock -
Lightly cooked apples and pears with spice and chalk. Grilled toast. Full-bodied. Creamy and soft texture with pretty acidity coming out. Light almonds at the end. - James Suckling Dry and toasty, this has good cut and a light chalkiness ... Learn MoreChampagne Pommery Apanage Nv$109.99 Per item -
The NV Brut Le Rosé is another attractive Champagne from Alexandre Chartogne. Creamy and supple, the Rosé offers good up-front appeal, if not quite the persistence or energy of the very best wines in the range. I would prefer to ... Learn MoreChartogne-Taillet Brut Rose NV$110.00 Per itemOut of stock -
Les Terres Roses is crafted primarily with Chardonnay and a small percentage of “Bouzy Rouge”, a still red wine made from old vine Pinot Noir. Stephan Reinhardt from Robert Parker says: “This is simply great and well-structured Rosé! You are ... Learn MorePierre Paillard 'Les Terres Roses' Grand Cru Rose Champagne Nv$114.99 Per itemOut of stock
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