It is estimated that between 1908 and 1965, Winston Churchill drank approximately 42,000 bottles of Champagne. At least one bottle a day. Every day. On his own. I must say I sympathize with the old man as I can’t seem to find a time when Champagne isn’t appropriate. Today’s sparkling wine lives up to the indomitable allure and almost primordial satisfaction to be had in a glass of this timeless beverage. Located in the Grand Est sub-region of the Marne Department, Mailly Gran Cru exemplifies the aristocratic verve associated with the 17 Grand Cru vineyards of Champagne. If while on a budget (this wine retails for the insane price of $40) you desire the elegance of a 2008 Cristal Brut, the finesse of Pol Roger’s legendary tête de cuvée, and the tremor of anticipation as you emancipate this generous wine with a celebratory pop!, then look no further. In the glass you’ll find a medium concentration of light straw moving to an almost platinum rim with an exquisitely gentle, silky mousse. The effervescent nose omits an ethereal blend of lemon curd, blanched almond skin, cheese rind, and the always enchanting aroma of toasted brioche crust which gives Champagne its distinctive mis en place. The palate confirms the nose with a flattering finish of the famous crushed chalk soil replete with refreshing acidity that makes this perfect for any occasion. To borrow from Voltaire, “the sparkling froth of this fresh wine is the dazzling image of us, the French.”
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