Bruno Paillard Cuvée 72 Champagne

This is perhaps the most expressive and demonstrative Champagne, showcasing the talents of the cellar master and Vendangeoir.Twenty percent of the year's first pressings ferment in small oak barrels. Cuvée 72 consists of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier grapes from at least 30 of Champagne's 327 Crus. The wine incorporates a minimum of 30% wines from previous years, spanning 25 vintages since 1985, making it an Extra Brut Champagne and a multi-vintage wine. The wine is then bottled to mature on its lees in deep cellars for approximately 4 years, followed by disgorgement as needed. On the nose, it reveals citrus notes like Menton lemon, Florida grapefruit, or South Italian bergamot, followed by aromatic red berry hints such as currant, raspberry, sour cherry, and exotic spices like white pepper, all mingled with subtle nuances of pineapple. On the palate, it starts with delicate red berry notes, followed by citrus fruits, almonds, toasted brioche, alongside blackcurrant jelly, blackberries, and figs. The bottles should be stored in a cellar, lying horizontally, protected from light and noise, at an optimal humidity level of approximately 70%. This Champagne of delights should be served at 10 to 12°C, perfect for a full meal featuring smoked salmon toast, sushi, Marennes-Oléron oysters, grilled sea fish a la plancha, pike with Beurre blanc sauce, soft cheeses like Chaource, dark chocolate fondants, or a Norwegian omelet with vanilla and coffee. It also pairs wonderfully with Mignardises, macarons, or Southwestern cannelés as an all-hours Champagne.