Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay
75cl * Vegan & Organic * 12.5% ABV * Champagne, France
Maison Taittinger dates back to an original house founded in 1734 by Jacques Fourneaux, however its links to the Taittinger family started in 1931, after Pierre Taittinger was stationed at Chateau de la Marquetterie in Pierry and fell in love with the property. Today, it is still owned and managed by the Taittinger family with its headquarters in Reims, situated above a sprawling warren of Roman cellars, where the wines are allowed to age slowly.
Taittinger sources its fruit from more than 35 premium vineyards throughout the Champagne region, with approximately 50% of the grapes coming from the company's own estate. Produced from 95% first pressing, the hallmark of the blend is the high percentage of Chardonnay it contains, which is typically 40% of the Brut Reserve. Elegant and delicate with subtle hints of stone fruit and baked goods, developing nuttier notes as it ages. It has become a popular style worldwide, due to its dependable quality and relative affordability.
Pub quiz fact: Taittinger Brut Reserve NV was Ian Fleming's original choice as James Bond's preferred Champagne, however pressure from screenplay writers (and the allure of a lucrative sponsorship deal) got him to change it to the more impressive sounding Dom Perignon.