Gatinois, Champagne (France) Aÿ Grand Cru Brut “Tradition” NV ($53)

Champagne Gatinois is a small house growing grapes at sites around the village of Aÿ. The village is on the south side of the Montagne de Reims and is best known for Grand Cru Pinot Noir vineyards. Champagne Gatinois tends several parcels of vineyard here and select only the best grapes for their own label. Their Brut Tradition is a ripe and luscious Champagne blended from 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay). The color is striking in that it shows a lovely salmon-pink tinge. The bouquet shows pure berry and cherry fruit with nuances of yeast, toast and wildflowers. The flavors are ripe and forward, with the exceptionally pure and juicy fruit underlain by yeasty, toasty and subtle spice tones. If you want to toast a special occasion, the Gatinois Brut Tradition will be a fine and elegant choice.
94 Wayne Belding