Champagne is synonymous with celebration, a golden elixir that elevates moments into memories. Yet, behind its shimmering bubbles lies a grape that quietly crafts the essence of many prestigious Champagnes—Chardonnay. Known for its elegance, finesse, and brightness, unveiling Chardonnay shows it is a pillar of champagne, a grape that imparts depth and aging potential to…
Tasting the Stars
A Toast to Time: Uncorking a 1997 Gaston Chiquet Magnum
In a world where memories and moments intertwine with exceptional bottles of champagne, some experiences linger on the palate—and the heart—long after the final sip. Last night, I had the rare opportunity to enjoy a magnum of Gaston Chiquet Blancs de Blancs d’Aÿ 1997, a champagne whose age, story, and taste left an indelible mark…
The Indomitable Spirit of Women in Champagne
With International Women’s Day on the horizon, this year’s theme, “Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress,” strikes a chord that resonates through the rolling vineyards of Champagne. It’s a realm where the narrative isn’t just about the wine—it’s about the women whose ingenuity and resilience poured foundation into the very industry we celebrate…
Discovering the Timeless Elegance of Meunier: A 1955 Champagne Revelation
Champagne connoisseurs and enthusiasts, prepare to have your perceptions transformed. Today, I share with you an enigmatic journey—a tasting that challenged the very foundations of champagne lore. My encounter with a 1955 Blanc de Meunier from the storied cellars of Champagne Demière unveiled a truth long veiled by the mists of tradition. The narrative has…
12 Champagnes for Christmas Cheer
With only a few shopping days left until Christmas, it’s time to think about which champagnes you will choose for your Christmas Cheer! Here are 12 ideas to suit every budget.
Review – Frerejean Frères Brut Premier Cru
About the House Champagne Frerejean Frères is a relative newcomer to the world of champagne. Brothers Guillaume, Richard and Rodolphe Frerejean-Taittinger created their house in 2005 after previously only making champagne for family and friends. Although young, they have quite the pedigree, with their mother being from the acclaimed Taittinger family, they have champagne in…
Review – Jacquart Blanc de Blancs 2012
About the House Champagne Jacquart was created in 1964 by a group of about 30 vignerons who came together with the vision that by pooling their resources and their shared passion of terroir, they could achieve something greater than its individual parts. Extremely passionate and dedicated to creating wines to reflect this vision, their brand…
The magic under the stairs – or Mindfulness Part 2
I recently wrote about the joy and anticipation of being offered a bottle of 1986 Moet et Chandon that had been long forgotten under the stairs of a Queensland suburban home. Would magic emerge from under the stairs? Since this whole exercise was about appreciating what is actually in the glass we are drinking, I…
