As Valentine’s Day approaches, the air fills with anticipation and romance, marking the perfect occasion to celebrate love and affection. Amidst the timeless traditions of this day dedicated to lovers, there stands a symbol of celebration and elegance that has graced countless romantic moments: Champagne. This article will delve into the effervescent world of this beloved sparkling wine, a beverage that has become synonymous with love, luxury, and celebration.
Champagne, originating from the picturesque region of the same name in France, has long been the toast of choice for romantic occasions. Its delicate bubbles, unique flavour profiles, and the gentle pop of the cork are all part of a ritual that ignites the senses and sets the stage for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration. As we explore some of the most exquisite champagnes, perfect for toasting with your significant other, we will uncover the stories behind these sparkling wonders. From the grand maisons with their illustrious histories to the boutique producers crafting innovative and intimate expressions, each bottle of champagne carries a tale of passion and craftsmanship. The right champagne can elevate your celebration, whether you are planning a candlelit dinner, a cosy night in, or a grand gesture of love. Its versatility pairs exquisitely with various cuisines and settings, making it an ideal companion for your Valentine’s Day festivities.
Alberto Massucco, a passionate Chardonnay producer from the Côte des Blancs and an importer of exceptional vignerons, offers his recommendations for four exquisite labels perfect for celebrating love and the joy of life.
ANNA T – JEAN PHILIPPE TROUSSET
This champagne is complex and fresh, characterized by rich and engaging “unctuousness” reminiscent of great white wines. It uniquely balances the characteristics of a Burgundy white and those of a champagne. Made from white Sacy grapes exclusively fermented in wood (small barrels and tonneaux), it includes malolactic fermentation from the latest harvest. The champagne then spends three and a half years on lees. Its non-dosage quality is merely the final touch. It is 80% comprised of a réserve perpétuelle from vintages since 2009, stored in a specific barrel, with a part of twisted wines confirming the quality of this little gem.
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay Retail Price: Starting from 65€
CUVÉE MIREDE 2020 – ALBERTO MASSUCCO CHAMPAGNE
This champagne is a love story, a tribute by Alberto to his wife Mirede. It is persuasive, gentle, charming, and sensual, with mature notes of apricot, quince apple, and marzipan. It gives way to intense coffee and hazelnut and ends with a vibrant and persistent hint of bitter almond. The bright personality of Cuvée Mirede is a rare expression of the woman it is dedicated to. It is the result of Grand Cru grapes from Mesnil (30%) and Oger (30%) from the 2020 harvest, fermented about a third in barrique, plus those (30%) from the family vineyard and an additional 10% of vins de réserve from 2017, 2018, and 2019. After resting on the lees, the champagne is dosed at 1.5 g/l.
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay Retail Price: Starting from 70€
MILLÉSIME 2009 – ROCHET BOCART
Mathilde Devarenne, a young vigneronne with a masterful grasp of the art champenoise, presents her Millesime 2009. Sourced from grapes of the historic parcel Le Fossé Bocard in Vaudemange, aged 65 years with a beautiful southeast exposure. The nose is tied to notes of dried fruit (walnut) with a tendency towards candied citrus, in line with the personality of the vintage. The palate also follows the character of the vintage, highlighting beautiful freshness alongside a certain vinosity. The champagne rested 12 years on lees before being dosed at 1 g/l. Malolactic fermentation was completed.
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay Retail Price: Starting from 53€
MON IDÉE DE CRAMANT – ALBERTO MASSUCCO CHAMPAGNE
This limited edition release of just 500 bottles, gold-screen printed and meticulously hand-numbered, is a true jewel inside and out. This precious champagne is made from grapes exclusively from the Grand Cru village of Cramant in the Cote des Blancs from the 2018 harvest, fermented in vats and left on lees for 3 years. It immediately releases a soft presence of pineapple and sparkling effervescence of mandarin, all enriched with elderflower. It finishes with a spicy white pepper, hay, and chamomile note. Generous and bright champagne, rich and mature in fruit, powerful and harmonious. After dégorgement, it is dosed at 2 g/l.
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay Retail Price: Starting from 125€
So, let us raise our glasses and dive into a world where the bubbles speak of love, where each sip celebrates affection, and where Valentine’s Day becomes not just a date on the calendar but a memorable moment sealed with the exquisite taste of champagne.
Article edited by Nadia Toppino
Food, Wine & Hospitality Journalist