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Bubbly wine. As soon as the temperature drops in autumn and the Netherlands prepares for the New Year's Eve celebrations, the sales of champagne skyrocket exponentially. Although there is a dip in sales during January, February, and March, things pick up again in April and May. The sun starts shining, boats can sail the canals, and the culinary outdoor season starts. It is well known that only rosé wine won't do justice. How about a summer champagne instead?
While people are busy sabering in winter, champagne is also an excellent wine for summer. But which one? A Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs champagne is the queen of champagnes, made solely from the Chardonnay grape. Blanc de Blancs literally means "white from whites" and refers to the fact that this champagne is made exclusively from white grape varieties. While most champagnes are produced using a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes, this champagne is made from only Chardonnay grapes. This results in an elegant and refined taste with refreshing notes of citrus and flowers. Blanc de Blancs champagnes are known for their freshness and lively acidity, making them a favorite among sparkling wine enthusiasts and an excellent fit for the summer climate, but which one exactly? The two extremes:
The Clos du Mesnil from the renowned champagne house Krug is one of the most prestigious Blanc de Blancs champagnes in the world. This vintage champagne jewel is only produced in the best years and is made from the Chardonnay grape, sourced from a single plot called Clos du Mesnil in the town of Mesnil-sur-Oger in the Côte des Blancs region of the Champagne region in France. A bottle of this exclusive champagne can be purchased for a price tag between €1,000 and €1,500.
So, is there a favorite of the house? Yes, certainly. Apart from the above-mentioned renowned and very large wine houses, we have another champagne in mind: Paul Hartwood Cuvee 800. Of course, this is a champagne made from 100% Chardonnay, but the bottle has been handcrafted by a goldsmith and can be purchased in a box with a sword, certification, and other accessories so that you can stylishly uncork the bottle. If you are looking for an exceptional champagne combined with an unforgettable experience, this might be the best choice.
But what about those die-hard fans who will most likely cling to rosé this summer? As a transition, we suggest rosé champagne. Dom Pérignon has a successful vintage, but Ruinart's pink version is also highly rated. It could provide a gradual transition, but perhaps the battle will never end. As Mr. Bonaparte once said, "In victory, you deserve Champagne. In defeat, you need it."
