Sparkling Wines Champagne Rare Champagne - Rare Brut Champagne (Millésimé)

Rare Champagne is a prestigious house, renowned for its highly refined and expressive sparkling wines, embodying both elegance and complexity. The cuvée at hand is a Brut Champagne, labelled as “Non millésimé” (non-vintage), though it also references millésimé versions, suggesting the wine might be based on carefully selected base wines from different years, possibly blended for consistency and refinement. The grape composition in such blends typically revolves around Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, known for providing structure and freshness respectively, while occasionally a touch of Pinot Meunier is added for roundness and fruitiness. The Champagne undergoes traditional méthode champenoise vinification, with extended lees ageing contributing to its complexity, creamy mousse, and persistent bead. Expect vibrant aromas of citrus, white flowers, perhaps hints of toasted brioche and delicate minerality, with a palate deftly balancing richness and vivacious acidity.

The Champagne region, nestled in the north-east of France, enjoys a cool continental climate influenced by oceanic currents and the protective Montagne de Reims. Soils here are rich in chalk, lending an unmistakable finesse, tension and purity to the wines. With a heritage dating back to Roman times, Champagne has become synonymous with celebration and luxury, its unique terroir allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and maintain their exhilarating freshness.

For food pairings, Brut Champagne of this quality is a versatile companion. Classic matches include oysters, seafood platters, or delicately prepared shellfish such as scallops with a citrus dressing. The wine’s toasty notes also marry beautifully with poultry dishes, Japanese tempura, or even truffle-infused regional delicacies such as Bresse chicken. Lighter cheeses like Chaource or young Brillat-Savarin will also enhance its creaminess, while subtly highlighting its vibrant acidity.

For the optimal tasting experience, serve this Champagne well chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Use slender flutes or tulip-shaped glasses to preserve the elegant bubbles and concentrate its aromatic bouquet. Allow the wine a few minutes in the glass to reveal all its nuanced, complex layers.