# CS73 Grande Réserve (2006)

- **Producer:** Champagne Cristian Senez
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €75
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apricot, lemon, grapefruit, blossom, brioche, toast, butter, vanilla, leather, caramel, almond, hazelnut

## About this wine

Champagne Cristian Senez is located in Fontette, in the southern Côte des Bar region of Champagne. Known for their traditional craftsmanship, the estate focuses on expressing the unique Kimmeridgian clay-limestone soils of the Aube. The CS73 is a prestigious, late-disgorged cuvée representing the pinnacle of the house's artisanal approach. This 2006 vintage is only the second release of this rare cuvée, following the highly acclaimed 2002. The estate is certified Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE), reflecting their commitment to biodiversity and sustainable viticulture.

## Interesting facts

- The CS73 cuvée is only released in exceptional years, with the 2006 vintage being only the second release in the history of the house.
- This Champagne spent an extraordinary 16 to 17 years aging on its lees before disgorgement, far exceeding standard aging requirements.
- To preserve its piercing freshness and slow-aging potential, the winemaker strictly avoids malolactic fermentation.

## Food pairing

The high acidity and rich, autolytic complexity of this late-disgorged Champagne make it an exceptional partner for rich, savory dishes. It cuts through the fat of buttery seafood, roasted poultry, and creamy sauces, while its deep umami notes harmonize beautifully with aged cheeses and wild mushrooms.

## Wine making process

Hand-harvested grapes from 30 to 40-year-old vines undergo primary fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Crucially, the wine does not undergo malolactic fermentation, preserving its vibrant natural acidity and ensuring exceptional aging potential. No fining agents are used during the process. The wine then undergoes an extraordinary extended aging period of 16 to 17 years on its lees in the chalk cellars of Fontette before disgorgement, resulting in unparalleled complexity and depth.