# Collection (1997)

- **Producer:** Champagne Vincent D’Astrée
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Meunier, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Passed
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** yellow fruit, green apple, lemon, toasted bread, pastry, almond, hazelnut, orange marmalade, dried apricot

## About this wine

The Vincent D’Astrée Collection 1997 is a Champagne Blend from Champagne, France, produced by Champagne Vincent D’Astrée. This cooperative winery, established in 1956 in the Premier Cru village of Pierry, cultivates Chardonnay, Meunier, and Pinot Noir. The estate's vineyards are situated on the Coteaux Sud d'Epernay, a region recognized for its terroir. The 1997 vintage presented a challenging growing season followed by a favorable harvest, yielding wines with notable fruit and structure. The wine has undergone an extended aging period of 20 years on its lees.

## Interesting facts

- Founded by a cooperative of winemakers in 1956.
- Vineyards are located in the Premier Cru village of Pierry.
- Aged for 20 years on lees, developing significant complexity.
- Producer holds ISO 22000 certification.

## Food pairing

The wine's acidity and minerality cut through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while its toasty notes complement dishes with similar baked or roasted elements. Citrus notes in the wine can echo or contrast with citrus elements in the food.

## Wine making process

This Champagne is produced using the traditional method, involving primary fermentation followed by secondary fermentation in the bottle to create effervescence. The blend consists of Chardonnay, Meunier, and Pinot Noir grapes. A significant aspect of its production is the extended aging period of 20 years on lees, a process that develops complex secondary aromas and contributes to the wine's texture. The producer holds ISO 22000 certification, indicating a commitment to food safety management. The winemaking philosophy focuses on expressing the minerality of the terroir and achieving balance.