Paul Berthelot Cuvee de Reserve NV

From:  Vallée de la Marne, Champagne, France

About the Winery:  Since 1884, the Berthelot family has had the immense pleasure of cultivating 16 hectares of vines situated between Dizy and Avenay, classified as Premier Cru, as well as in Aÿ, classified as Grand Cru. This variety of plots, with their diverse soils, grape varieties, and sun exposure, serves as an endless wellspring of inspiration.  The current owners represent the  5th generation (soon to be six) of Artisans-Vignerons of the Paul Berthelot family. 

They continue the tradition of holding themselves to high standards of Champagne quality, deeply respecting the land and its biodiversity. Certified HVE, Bertholet prioritizes sustainable practices. We pursue rarity, crafting Champagnes known for their technical precision, subtlety, power, and elegance. This dedication leads us to work exclusively with the heart of cuvées, only in years with favorable weather conditions. We are passionate and enthusiastic about sharing our discoveries. While we could talk about technique for hours, nothing speaks more eloquently than tasting our Paul Berthelot Champagnes.

Vinification:  The Cuvee de Reserve is composed of 40% Meunier, 40% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay and reserve wine, sourced from vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and the Vallée de la Marne. It is aged for a minimum of 3 years in the cellar before release. 

Dosage: 7g/l

Tasting notes: The nose is powerful and opens with notes of undergrowth (fern and moss) and herbal tea, before giving way to scents of honey, ripe fruit and fresh mint notes. Well structured body, immediately soft on the palate with notes of apple, pear, redcurrant and subtle flavours of menthol and aniseed, creating a tremendously long finish.

Winemaker: Arnaud & Valérie Berthelot 

Price per bottle / Price per case: $57.99/626.30  

Suggested Food Pairing: 

As an aperitif or with oysters, charcuterie, and soft cheeses. 

Colin Les Grands Terres Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs 2015

From:  Vertus, Cotes du Blanc, Champagne, France

About the Winery: Since 1829, the Colin clan has been cultivating vines in Vertus with passion and humility. Seven generations have shaped the estate, combining expertise, observation of nature, and respect for the long term.

Throughout the ages, they have followed traditional practices, guided by a deep attachment to the land that sustains them. In Vertus as in Bergères, the plots tell a story of families united by the same commitment: to care for their land in order to reveal its full expression. Winemakers and farmers yesterday as today, the Colins bring this heritage to life every day, driven by a love of a job well done and a deep respect for the  terroir. 

Vinification: 100% Chardonnay from Grand Cru Villages of Oiry and Cramant. Soil and subsoil is clay, white chalk and silty chalk underneath. Vinified in stainless steel tanks without malolactic fermentation. Racking was done in April 2016 and then wine was aged on the lees for 7 years. 

Dosage: 9g/l

Tasting notes:  The initial aromas are lovely and elegantly mature with wax, honey, quince, melon and orange blossom. Next come sweet linseed oil and a wealth of spices. The rich and complex blend is joined by a refreshing bergamot, lime, candied orange and mandarine. The taste matches the aroma with delicious, salty and flavourful sharpness. The wine’s natural effervescence brings out notes of candied fruit, beautiful ripeness and remarkable freshness.

Winemaker:  Delphine, Richard, Romaine & Justin Colin

Price per bottle / Price per case: $86.99/782.91 

Suggested Food Pairing: chicken with morels, risotto,  meringue tart, a citrus sabayon,