# Brut Millésimé (2016)

- **Producer:** Taittinger
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €74
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** kumquat, citrus fruits, white flowers, pear, peach, verbena, biscuit, brioche, gingerbread, vanilla, pastry cream, orange marmalade, almond, hazelnut

## About this wine

The Taittinger Brut Millésimé 2016 is a vintage Champagne from the Champagne region of France, produced by the historic, family-run Taittinger house. This wine is created exclusively from first-press wines, with 70% of its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes sourced from Grand Cru vineyards. Taittinger produces a 'cuvée millésimée' only when the harvest quality is deemed exceptional, reflecting a commitment to capturing the character of a specific year. The 2016 vintage, despite a challenging growing season, yielded grapes of high quality, contributing to the wine's elegance and freshness.

## Interesting facts

- Crafted only from first-press wines.
- Grapes sourced from 70% Grand Cru vineyards.
- Aged for over five years on lees.
- Represents Taittinger's commitment to vintage quality.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while its subtle fruit notes complement delicate seafood. The complexity and subtle toasty notes can also stand up to richer dishes and aged cheeses.

## Wine making process

The Taittinger Brut Millésimé 2016 is produced using exclusively first-press wines, a selection process that ensures a refined base. The blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir undergoes fermentation, followed by a secondary fermentation in the bottle to create its effervescence. A significant aspect of its production is the extended aging period of over five years on its lees in the producer's cellars. This process is crucial for developing the wine's complexity and integrating its flavors. The grapes for the 2016 vintage were harvested in mid- to late September, following a growing season that ultimately yielded high-quality fruit.