Wine Advisor
Taittinger, Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut 2004
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Description
In 1952, the Taittinger Champagne House created the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs - its most exclusive and premium cuvée - in honour of the Comtes de Champagne and in particular Thibaud IV, whose seal proudly adorns every bottle of Taittinger. It is made only with Chardonnay grapes from the Grands Crus of the Côte des Blancs region, including the villages of Avize, Cramant, Chouilly, Mesnil-sur-Oger and Oger, which all have a renowned soil quality for this particular variety in the region. "Small Quantity, Premium Quality" Taittinger’s own criteria govern the production of the Comtes de Champagne putting an emphasis on quality rather than quantity.
Tasting notes
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
It’s fascinating to taste the 2004 Brut Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne after the 2002, something I have been able to do on a few occasions. The 2004 is all about minerality, precision and tension. It doesn’t have the sheer richness or power of the 2002, but it makes up for that with its crystalline purity and sheer energy. Bright hints of lemon oil, white flowers and crushed rocks are layered into the pointed, vibrant finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2034. This is a fabulous set of new releases from Taittinger. The 2002 Comtes de Champagne is easily one of the very best young Champagnes I have ever tasted. Over the next year or so, Taittinger plans to list more information about their NV wines on the back labels, something that is a huge positive for the consumer. Importer: Kobrand Corp., Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7756
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
I am thrilled with the way the 2004 Comtes de Champagne continues to evolve in bottle. A few years ago, the 2004 was quite focused and linear, in the style of the vintage, but more recently, the wine has begun to fill out beautifully. The 2004 remains bright, with a full range of citrus, white flower and mineral nuances that dance on the palate. A brisk, saline-infused finish rounds things out beautifully in a Comtes that impresses for its crystalline purity. I expect the 2004 will always remain a bit cool next to the more opulent 2002, but it is still drop-dead gorgeous.
Reviewed by: Antonio Galloni
It's fascinating to taste the 2004 Brut Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne after the 2002, something I have been able to do on a few occasions. The 2004 is all about minerality, precision and tension. It doesn't have the sheer richness or power of the 2002, but it makes up for that with its crystalline purity and sheer energy. Bright hints of lemon oil, white flowers and crushed rocks are layered into the pointed, vibrant finish.
About the Producer
A Great Champagne House, which has quickly established itself as one of the most prestigious in the region, Taittinger is founded upon exceptional cuvees from the greatest terroirs of Champagne. The history of the Taittinger Champagne House begins at the beginning of the 20th century. Taittinger developed his brand’s identity gradually, building its identity upon a daring and innovative style. In 1932, Taittinger became one of the most important references among the great Champagne Houses. The noble Chardonnay became the emblematic grape variety of the House, producing brilliant wines full of finesse, elegance and an ethereal lightness. Since 2006, Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger, along with his daughter Vitalie and his son Clovis, has been at the helm of the business started by his ancestors. Thanks to the great commitment of a united and dedicated family, Taittinger has maintained a winning spirit and a certain consistency of style, marking this beautiful Champagne House. The Taittinger Champagne House boasts a wealth of very precious and rare vineyards. In order to preserve the invaluable genetic heritage that is the signature of the Taittinger brand, the estate has chosen mass selection for more than 90% of its vines. In addition to Pinot Noir (48%) and Pinot Meunier (15%), a pride of place is given to Chardonnay (37%), the variety that leaves its print most significantly on the cuvées of the House.
