Product Description
Taittinger Brut Millésimé 2016 is a striking expression of Champagne from a vintage marked by contrasts and challenges. Despite the capricious weather that defined 2016—cold spring frost, heavy rains, and a cool July—the final months of the growing season brought much-needed sunshine and warmth, resulting in a harvest of perfectly ripe grapes. A harmonious blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir, this vintage showcases the remarkable character of the year, combining freshness, elegance, and fruit-forward complexity. The wine was aged in the cellars for over five years, which has allowed it to develop into a superbly balanced Champagne with both depth and finesse.
A wine of exceptional clarity, Taittinger Brut Millésimé 2016 offers a nose of beautiful complexity, featuring floral notes of hawthorn, pear, kumquat, and gingerbread. This complexity is complemented by subtle hints of mint and white flowers, creating an inviting bouquet. On the palate, the wine reveals a fresh, dynamic attack, with floral tones of honeysuckle mingling with peach and citrus fruits. The finish is long-lasting and subtle, with a pleasing bitterness of orange peel. It is the perfect balance of the elegance of the chalky soils of the Côte des Blancs and the richness of the Montagne de Reims' Pinot Noir. The vintage reflects the terroirs' finesse and maturity, producing a Champagne that offers both power and subtlety.
Maker
Founded in 1734, the House of Taittinger is one of the most prestigious Champagne houses, with a reputation built on a rich heritage of elegance, craftsmanship, and innovation. Known for producing some of the finest vintage Champagnes, Taittinger’s signature style blends the freshness and vibrancy of Chardonnay with the complexity and structure of Pinot Noir. This balance has earned Taittinger an esteemed place in the world of Champagne, renowned for wines that express both the terroir and the vintage with elegance and refinement.
The Taittinger family is still involved in the production of Champagne today, ensuring that every bottle reflects the House’s commitment to quality and tradition. From the vineyards to the cellars, Taittinger’s winemaking process combines the artistry of generations with the latest innovations, allowing the Champagne to age gracefully while maintaining its signature freshness and character. Each vintage is a testament to the House’s ongoing pursuit of excellence, producing wines that are not only exceptional but timeless.
Philosophy
Taittinger’s philosophy is rooted in a commitment to producing Champagne of unparalleled quality, where the true expression of the vineyard and the vintage is allowed to shine through. By focusing on meticulous attention to detail and the use of only the finest grapes, Taittinger creates wines that are both complex and elegant. The House's focus on Chardonnay, combined with the richness of Pinot Noir, results in Champagnes that are fresh, vibrant, and built to age gracefully.
Taittinger believes that Champagne is not just about the wine, but about the experience it creates. Each bottle is a reflection of the House's dedication to craftsmanship, and every sip offers a moment of indulgence, whether it’s to celebrate life’s special occasions or to enjoy in quiet contemplation. The House’s commitment to sustainability and the environment ensures that their practices contribute to the future of Champagne, creating wines that are as good for the land as they are for the palate.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Floral & Fruit Complexity
The nose of Taittinger Brut Millésimé 2016 is both complex and inviting, with beautiful floral aromas of hawthorn and white flowers. The bouquet evolves to reveal ripe pear, kumquat, gingerbread, and a subtle minty note, enhancing the wine’s freshness.
Palate
Fresh, Dynamic, & Elegant
On the palate, this Champagne comes alive with energy. It opens with floral tones of honeysuckle, followed by vibrant notes of peach and citrus fruits. The mouthfeel is refreshing and balanced, with the fruit’s richness beautifully complemented by crisp acidity.
Finish
Subtle & Long-Lasting
The finish is elegant and subtle, with lingering notes of bitter orange peel and a delicate freshness. The perfect integration of the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir components creates a finish that is both clean and complex, with the richness of the Montagne de Reims Pinot Noir rounding out the wine.
The Finer Details
Style - Champagne
Varietal - Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Country - France
Region - Champagne
Vintage - 2016
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 12.5%
