Category: Champagne reviews

Emirates Elevates Luxury Inflight Experience with Dom Pérignon Rosé  Champagne in First Class

Emirates has further strengthened its reputation for offering one of the world’s most exclusive inflight wine and champagne selections by introducing Dom Pérignon Rosé Vintage 2009 to its first-class menu. This distinguished cuvée will be available for a limited time across all Emirates routes departing from Dubai.

The airline maintains exclusive global rights to serve Dom Pérignon Champagne onboard, including the Dom Pérignon Vintage 2015 and the Dom Pérignon Plénitude 2 2006, which already feature prominently on its first class offering.

Emirates has invested more than USD 1 billion into its wine program over the past 16 years, with its dedicated wine cellar in France currently holding a remarkable 6.5 million bottles. This long-term commitment underscores the carrier’s dedication to curating a refined and unparalleled gastronomic experience in the skies.

Dom Pérignon Rosé 2009

Dom Pérignon Rosé 2009 is crafted with a higher proportion of Pinot Noir than its classic counterpart, is renowned for its intense color, bold structure, and layered complexity. Emirates describes it as embodying the richness of a “generous growing season,” with tasting notes highlighting a bouquet of rose petals, orange oil, and saffron, followed by vibrant flavors of raspberry, cherry, cassis, and fig, deepened by undertones of liquorice and gingerbread.

By adding this celebrated vintage to its portfolio, Emirates reinforces its position as a leader in luxury air travel, where fine wine and Champagne form an integral part of the passenger experience.

Champagne Telmont Debuts the World’s First Ultra-Lightweight Standard Champagne Bottle

This Earth Day, Champagne Telmont introduced the world’s first ultra-lightweight standard champagne bottle to the U.S. market. Weighing 800 grams (1.76 pounds), this bottle’s debut with Champagne Telmont’s Réserve Brut marks a major milestone in sustainable winemaking, reducing carbon emissions by 4% per bottle and challenging long-held industry conventions.

Bottle manufacturing accounts for nearly 30% of Champagne’s carbon footprint. For over two decades, the standard bottle weight remained unchanged at 835 grams, with lighter alternatives dismissed as unviable due to the pressure requirements of champagne-making. But Telmont, driven by its In the Name of Mother Nature mission, challenged industry norms. After years of rigorous research and testing, the Maison vetted an eco-conscious bottle without compromising strength or elegance.

Developed in partnership with French glassmaker Verallia, Telmont co-developed a significantly lighter bottle while maintaining Champagne’s essential pressure resistance and refined aesthetic. This innovation requires no modifications to production processes or existing manufacturing equipment, ensuring seamless adoption across the industry.

“Creativity and innovation must go hand in hand with responsibility. By adopting this ultra–lightweight bottle, we aim to redefine industry standards and contribute to a more sustainable future for Champagne,” says Ludovic du Plessis, President of Champagne Telmont. “We aim with this new bottle to set a new standard for Champagne, in the name of Mother Nature.”

Telmont’s innovation could eliminate 8,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually if adopted industry-wide. This innovation is not subject to any exclusivity, ensuring that it benefits as many people as possible. There are no barriers to its immediate and widespread adoption across the entire Champagne region as a new standard for the appellation.

Telmont began producing the 800g bottles in 2022 with an initial run of 3,000 bottles. Following the required three-year aging process, these bottles are now arriving in the U.S. market. In 2023, production scaled to 30,000 bottles, followed by 220,000 bottles in 2024 and from 2025 on 100% of Telmont bottles will be produced at this new, lighter weight.

Champagne Telmont’s Réserve Brut will be rolling out in the 800-gram bottle through select in-person retailers and on Champagne Telmont’s website (HERE) for an SRP of $76.

Wine Review:  Réserve de la Terre – Champagne Telmont is an elegant and sustainable choice for Valentine’s Day!

I invite you to immerse yourself in elegance and sustainability this Valentine’s Day with a bottle of Réserve de la Terre – Champagne Telmont. This champagne will not only tantalize your palate but also exemplify environmentally sustainable practices.

Réserve de la Terre is a non-vintage cuvée made from three harvests: 2020 at 70%, 2019 at 15%, and 2018 at 15%, with blends of three grape varieties: Meunier at 37%, Chardonnay at 43%, and Pinot Noir at 20%.

Tasting Notes:  a delegate gold hue and on the nose, it presents a bouquet of fresh citrus fruits, white flowers, and subtle hints of brioche. The palate is well-balanced with flavors of green apple, and plum with a hint of spice, complemented by a fine and persistent mousse. The finish is long and refreshing, with a mineral undertone that adds complexity and depth to the overall profile.

I found this champagne to be sophisticated and elegant, while simultaneously offering a delightful sensory experience.
93 Points
Liz Palmer

History of Telmont: The House of Telmont was founded in 1912 by Henri Lhopital in Damery, a village in the heart of the Champagne region in France. Over the years, Telmont has built a reputation for producing high-quality champagnes that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The family-owned estate has always been committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, which is evident in their organic and biodynamic vineyard management. In recent years, Telmont has taken significant steps towards reducing their carbon footprint and promoting biodiversity, making them a pioneer in the world of sustainable viticulture. Telmont has converted its 24.5ha estate to organics.  The Organic Cuvée Telmont Réserve de la Terre is a testament to their dedication to preserving the environment while crafting exceptional champagnes.

Selecting the Perfect Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque Champagne for Valentine’s Day

Celebrating Valentine’s Day with champagne is not only elegant but also gastronomically versatile. The effervescent nature of champagne enhances the dining experience by complementing a wide range of foods, from oysters and creamy cheeses to chocolates and fruity desserts. The acidity and bubbles of champagne also elevate the flavors, making it a suitable choice for many dishes.

The tradition of toasting with champagne on Valentine’s Day adds a touch of elegance and festivity, making the moment even more special and memorable. Cheers to love and happiness!

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, selecting the perfect Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque champagne is essential for your special evening. Consider the unique qualities and pairing potential of each style to ensure an evening of refined delight.

Brief History of Belle Epoque

Belle Epoque means “Beautiful Era” in French and refers to a period of peace, prosperity, and cultural flourishing in France and Western Europe, roughly spanning from the late 19th century to the onset of World War I. It was a time of artistic, architectural, and intellectual advancements, characterized by lavish lifestyles and exquisite tastes. Perrier-Jouet, a prestigious champagne house founded in 1811, embraced this spirit of refinement and elegance in their Belle Epoque series. The collection, adorned with the iconic anemone flowers designed by Emile Gallé, an Art Nouveau master, pays homage to this golden age.

2013 Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque – Fleur de Champagne Brut Rose Millesime

The 2013 Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque Brut Rose Millesime exemplifies sophistication and grace. This vintage is crafted from a harmonious blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, with a higher proportion of Pinot Noir imparting a delicate pink hue.

Tasting Notes: The nose is greeted with aromas of red berries, citrus, and floral undertones, hinting at the finesse within. On the palate, it offers a captivating balance of freshness and richness, with flavors of strawberries, raspberries, and a touch of spice. The finish is long and elegant, leaving a lingering impression.

Food Pairing for Valentine’s Day: This champagne is a perfect companion for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. It pairs beautifully with dishes such as lobster salad, roasted duck breast with a berry sauce, or a selection of fresh berries and cream for dessert.

2012 Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque – Fleur de Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut Millesime

The 2012 Blanc de Blancs Brut Millesime is a pure expression of Chardonnay from the esteemed Côte des Blancs vineyards. Known for its exceptional purity and minerality, this vintage showcases the elegance of the terroir.

Tasting Notes: The bouquet is rich with white flowers, citrus, and a hint of brioche, reflecting its unique origins. On the palate, it is vibrant and crisp, with flavors of green apple, lemon zest, and a touch of almond. The finish is long and refreshing, embodying sophistication.

Food Pairing for Valentine’s Day: For a memorable Valentine’s Day, pair this champagne with oysters, seared scallops, or a delicate goat cheese salad. Its crispness complements the subtle flavors of seafood and light dishes.

2014 Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque – Fleur de Champagne Millesime Brut

The 2014 Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque Millesime Brut is a testament to the house’s dedication to producing exceptional vintage champagnes. This blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier from the finest vineyards offers a luminous golden color with fine, persistent bubbles.

Tasting Notes: The bouquet reveals enticing notes of white flowers, ripe pear, and a hint of honey. On the palate, it is well-balanced with a creamy texture, presenting flavors of stone fruits, citrus, and a hint of spice. The finish is sophisticated and enduring.

Food Pairing for Valentine’s Day: This champagne’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for a Valentine’s Day feast. It pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes like poached salmon, creamy risotto, or a selection of aged cheeses.

Regardless of your choice among these three Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque champagnes, you are assured an evening that epitomizes elegance, romance, and memorable experiences!

Exploring Champagne Duval-Leroy + Prestige 1er Cru Brut 2008 Blanc de Blancs

History and Evolution of Duval-Leroy

The Duval-Leroy champagne house, established in 1859 through the partnership of Jules Duval and Edouard Leroy, has evolved into a symbol of quality and tradition. Duval-Leroy is situated in the picturesque town of Vertus, France. Unique among champagne houses, Duval-Leroy remains independent and family-managed. This enduring continuity allows the house to uphold its traditional values while adopting innovations that enhance both the quality of its champagnes and its environmental impact.

Since the late 20th century, under the leadership of Carol Duval-Leroy, the house has experienced significant growth and modernization, establishing itself as one of the leading champagne producers globally. Carol Duval-Leroy stands out as one of the few women to helm a champagne house, pioneering sustainable practices in viticulture and production, and driving innovation in winemaking processes.

Duval-Leroy was also among the first to obtain sustainable viticulture certification for its vineyards, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible production.

Wine Tasting Notes: Duval Leroy Prestige 1er Cru Brut 2008 Blanc de Blancs

Duval Leroy Prestige 1er Cru Brut 2008 Blanc de Blancs is an elegant Champagne crafted exclusively from 100% Chardonnay grapes sourced from the premier vineyards of the Côte des Blancs. This prestigious cuvée reveals an inviting bouquet of fresh baked brioche, honey, and baked apple, accented by delicate aromas of walnuts. The fine and persistent perlage enhances the sensory experience, offering a lively and elegant effervescence.

On the palate, it unfolds with vibrant flavors of green apple and zesty lemon, accompanied by a subtle hint of nuts. The wine is beautifully balanced, with a harmonious interplay of fruit and acidity, leading to an elegant, light mineral finish. This wine stands as a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and quality of the Duval Leroy house.

93 Points
Liz Palmer