|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Be part of our community to learn about wine, get discounts and socialize with other wine lovers
|
|
|
|
|
William's Best Picks
|
|
Pick #1: AR Lenoble, Champagne, Cuvée Gentilhomme, Blancs de Blanc, 1999 (€63.25)
The area of from which champagne is made up consists of 321 villages, of which only 17 are rated Grand Cru. This effort by Lenoble comes from the village of Chouilly, which has some of the best Chardonnay plots. Lenoble uses only the best grapes for the extraordinary wine and as a result its production rarely goes beyond about 500 cases per year. The term Blanc de Blanc indicates that the wine was made entirely from white grapes, in this case Chardonnay. The color of this cuvee is a deep golden one with very fine bubbles that refresh, but never create a bloated effect. Because the wine is very complex, with toasty buttery flavors, it should be left in the glass a while before drinking so that the flavors develop; decanting is recommended, rare for champagne. And like all glorious champagnes, it should not be served too cold. Don’t be afraid to serve it with meat, but a plate of fine prosciutto crudo does wonders for both.
What I love in a very good Riesling is the seamless combination of sweet fruit and mineral flavors, both of which merge for that very special taste. This Riesling, by one of the very best producers of Germany and from the fabled Sonnenuhr vineyard, provides both in spades. Smooth, luscious, and even quenching, this Riesling is a real treat. The fact that it was picked later than other grapes assures its bursting flavors and special richness. But even though late picked, the alcohol level is only 8%, making this a perfect drink that mellows, not overwhelms, as it is sipped.
|
|
|
|
