If several big name producers come to mind when you think of Champagne, you might be in for a pleasant surprise. An increasing number of smaller Champagne producers are easier to find in the US than ever before!
One of these is Henriot, a seventh generation family business which has produced Champagne going back some 200 years, and they were one of the first to graft new stock in their vineyards after the phylloxera crisis at the end of the 19th century. Their perseverance paid off, and they became the Champagne of choice among European royalty.
They are among a small number of independent houses remaining in Champagne, and they are known for an artisanal approach that results in elegance, sophistication and richness. They select from only the best vineyards and concentrate on the purity of the grapes, balancing the finesse and elegance of Chardonnay with the structure of Pinot Noir. The bottles have a very long maturation process, twice what is required by law, in the dark, quiet cellars in Reims, carved out of the chalky soil to a depth of 18 meters. This cool, humid location is optimal for the Champagne to reach its full potential.
I had the pleasure of sharing a bottle of with my family on a recent Sunday evening. The first thing I noticed was the incredibly beautiful color – a rich apricot-pink that made me think of heirloom roses in the summer. On the nose, it is like fresh picked wild strawberries, and this carries through on the palate along with a richness that I would liken to buttery toast. It is vivacious with just enough acidity to encourage more sipping!
Wine Spectator rates the 94 points, and we have this lovely pink gem in stock at just $49.95 making it affordable enough to pop open and pour for any occasion. Start your Thanksgiving dinner with a toast to the resident chef or take it along if you are a guest. Have another on hand to ring in the New Year – it is a Champagne you will want to enjoy again and again!
Or send it along to family and friends this holiday season – I am willing to bet they guess you really splurged on them! Only you need to know how affordable this luxury really is.