# Champagne Victoire Gold Vintage (2010)

- **Producer:** G.H. Martel et Cie
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, lemon, peach, pear, pastry, brioche, biscuit, butter, hazelnut, honey, almond

## About this wine

Champagne Victoire Gold Vintage 2010 is a prestige cuvée from G.H. Martel et Cie, a house founded in 1869 and family-owned by the Rapeneau family since 1979. The wine originates from the Champagne AOC in France. The Victoire series, known for its use of grapes from prime locations, is presented in a distinctive gold bottle, a concept that began with anniversary releases and continued with vintage offerings. The 2010 vintage was exclusively produced in magnum format. The 2010 growing season in Champagne experienced dry summer conditions.

## Interesting facts

- The gold bottle was initially a limited-edition anniversary release.
- The 2010 vintage was only released in magnum bottles.
- The Rapeneau family has been at the helm of G.H. Martel since 1979.
- Head winemaker Christophe Rapeneau was named 'Sparkling Winemaker of the Year'.

## Food pairing

The wine's crisp acidity and mineral notes cut through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its complexity can complement delicate white meats and earthy mushroom flavors.

## Wine making process

Champagne Victoire Gold Vintage 2010 is produced using the traditional Méthode Champenoise. The grapes are fermented, and then undergo a secondary fermentation in the bottle to create effervescence. The wine benefits from extended aging on its lees, with reports of nearly 12 years of aging for this vintage. Additionally, the wine was aged in wood, which contributes to its texture. The 2010 growing season was marked by dry summer conditions.
