Product Description
RARE "OUTSTANDING" RATING BY DECANTER TASTING PANEL
– Earlier this year Decanter magazine held a blind tasting of 100 Grower Champagnes, in which only FOUR wines scored 95 points (or above) and were designated as Outstanding by the panel of three experts. Today we are thrilled to be one of the few places on the West Coast to have one of those limited-production wines in store! All three Decanter experts scored the Nicolas Maillart Champagne Premier Cru Brut Platine at 95 points, and what is remarkable is that we have this terrific Premier Cru Champagne for under $39! "Grower" Champagnes (wines that are made by the vignerons who tend the vineyards) are gaining in popularity, as they represent a combination of excellent value, and a great expression of terroir. The big houses focus on a consistent style across vintages, whereas the growers will have more variation and be more adventurous.
Nicolas Maillart is a true artisan who pays attention to every detail from the vineyard to every step in the winemaking process. In keeping with the region’s typicity, his vineyards contain a high proportion of Pinot Noir as well as some Chardonnay; the Pinot Noir providing power and substance to complement the finesse of the Chardonnay. The family vineyard has been tended with care since the 18th century, and more recently, they’ve been certified as HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale or High Environmental Value) by the French Ministry of Agriculture, meaning that they follow rigorous sustainable farming practices. We love to support independent, family-owned enterprises (that’s what we are, too!) and when a superb product is a tremendous value like this, we love bringing it to your attention! Enjoy! -Jim Knight, The Wine House (7/20/17)
TECHNICAL NOTES
66% Pinot Noir
23% Chardonnay
11% Pinot Meunier
Disgorged 1/2015
The Platine Brut is exclusively comprised of Grand Cru and Premier Cru grapes primarily grown in Ecueil, as well as Villers Allerand and Bouzy. 51% Reserve wine. Slow, gentle pressing using gravity-flow techniques. Vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and a period in barrel for a certain amount of the reserve wines. Aged for an average of two years in bottle. Disgorged by hand and laid down for at least three months before release. Dosage: 6 g/liter.