Sparkling Wines Champagne Vollereaux - Brut Millésimé - 2004

Vollereaux’s 2004 Champagne Brut Millésimé is a distinguished cuvée embodying the finesse and complexity of vintage Champagne. Crafted predominantly from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, this 2004 release represents a careful selection of vineyard parcels, with long maturation on the lees enhancing both texture and aromatic depth. The result is a sparkling wine showing characteristic notes of citrus oil, stone fruits and delicate baked brioche, underpinned by a vibrant, persistent mousse and a refined minerality that lingers elegantly on the palate. As a Brut style, it delivers freshness and purity, balanced by nuanced maturity from extended cellaring.

Champagne, the northernmost wine region of France, is shaped by its cool, semi-continental climate, just warm enough to ripen grapes while retaining vital acidity—an essential for great sparkling wine. The region’s singular chalk and limestone soils not only help with drainage but impart the unique minerality found in classic Champagnes. Champagne’s centuries-old tradition dates back to the 17th century, and the region’s expertise is evident in each bottle. Houses like Vollereaux contribute to that legacy by producing vintage expressions only in years with optimal growing conditions, such as 2004.

This cuvée’s elegant profile makes it a superb partner for a range of dishes. For a classic Champagne pairing, consider fresh oysters or grilled scallops, where the wine’s acidity and fine bubbles cleanse and lift the flavours. It will also shine with dishes like poultry in a creamy sauce, or a delicate mushroom risotto. Regional matches such as gougères—cheese puffs from Burgundy—work beautifully, as does lightly cured salmon or even a simple, perfectly made tarte flambée.

For the best experience, serve Vollereaux 2004 Brut Millésimé well chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Allow the wine a few minutes in the glass to fully reveal its aromatic complexity, and enjoy in large tulip-shaped flutes to best capture both bouquet and effervescence.