‘Tis the season to share some bubbly, and this Grower Champagne by Vilmart is perfect to share at just $64.95. With such a creamy texture and long finish, your guests will assume that they are drinking a bottle that costs 3-4X the price!
Vilmart & Cie has been in the Champagne business since the late 19th century. The vineyard is located in the northern section of Champagne known as the Montagne de Reims. The cliffs in this region are known for their limestone powder and cool climates, perfect terroir for the very old vines that the estate relies on for their wine. The estate is currently run by Laurent Champs, the fifth generation to work the estate, and he employs sustainable and organic practices. His use of oak barrels, most of them neutral, is determined by the complexity of the wine – only those profound enough will be aged in this way.
On a recent evening, I popped the cork on one of these amazing bottles and proceeded to delight a small group of friends gathered at my house for appetizers. The crisp apple and citrus flavors, followed by an appealing note of spiciness would have been sublime on its own, but was even more appealing with toast points with melted Gouda, bacon-wrapped dates and popcorn crowned with truffle oil. The precision and minerality of the Champagne was a perfect companion to all of the components of our fare – the richness of the cheese, the saltiness of the bacon, and the complexity of the truffle oil. I can honestly say, had it not been for the reservations we had at a neighborhood restaurant, we would have opened a second bottle and skipped the entrees!
Consider NV Vilmart et Cie Brut Grand Cellier for your next gathering this holiday – it is definitely a crowd pleaser and understandably so with a 95-point rating from Wine Spectator. At less than $65 a bottle, it is a great choice to keep on hand. You never know when the next celebration might begin!