This singular Grower Champagne is not only one of the region’s most incredible values, it is also one of our all-time favorites. As a matter of fact, André Clouet’s Grand Reserve was the very Champagne my fiancé and I celebrated with that April night when I proposed alongside the Spanish coast. For an evening of great bubbly or to celebrate one of the most profound moments of your life, this exquisite Champagne is guaranteed to enhance any occasion.
Derived from the Grand Cru villages of Bouzy and Ambonnay and aged six years on its lees, this sparkling nectar delivers a richly textured yet simultaneously fresh and mineral-driven sensory journey that is unrivaled at its modest price point. After we had sold out of this wine earlier in the spring, many of you emailed us for more of this small production gem. So, we placed a special order, which was only recently disgorged upon our request.
The André Clouet Grand Reserve enjoys incredibly delicate bubbles and has a light golden, yellow core that moves to green reflections on the rim. Aromas leap from the glass with a bouquet of dried yellow apple, dried pineapple, preserved lemon, freshly-baked croissant, white mushrooms, honey and white flowers of honeysuckle and gardenia. The concentrated palate evolves to include red fruits with hints of redcurrant alongside lemon curd, hazelnut, and brioche. The opulent yet balanced palate masterfully walks a high wire between the full-bodied, rich mouthfeel and crisp acidity coupled with the trademark minerality that we all crave from the best Champagnes. To allow the magnificent aromatics of this Champagne to truly speak to you, avoid serving in thin, traditional Champagne flutes. Opt instead for a white wine stem or a tulip Champagne stem and serve just below cellar temperature. For a pairing that will transport you to the shores of San Sebastián, prepare this superb recipe for grilled octopus with lemon and parsley.