In keeping with the style established at Domaine Chandon more than a quarter of a century ago, the Brut Classic is a traditional blend of red and white grapes. Pinot Noir, which forms the majority of the cuvée, gives the wine body, depth and aging potential, while its lesser-known cousin, Pinot Meunier, adds subtle notes of toast and plum to the nose and palate. Chardonnay, which grows at Chandon's vineyards in southern Napa, Mt. Veeder and Carneros, contributes a firm structure and vibrancy, while Pinot Blanc broadens the wines texture and adds viscosity. Wine Spectator December 2001 - Rated 86 - Appealing for its ripe fruity flavors, with black cherry, spice, vanilla, ginger and grapey notes; it holds its fruity flavors without gaining much complexity.
Brut describes the driest Champagne with the least residual sugar. The sweetness level of the sparkling wine is determined by the amount of sugar added after the second fermentation and aging period.
Sparkling wines and Champagnes are categorized as Brut, Extra Brut, Extra dry, Sec and Demi-sec depending on their sugar levels. Brut Champagne is sold without any residual sugar and these wines are referred to as Brut Natural and, unlike earlier Champagnes, it's dry and not sweet.
Champagne and sparkling wines are also categorized as "vintage" or "non-vintage" (NV on the label) meaning they either come from a single year or are a blend of several different years. The "vintage" Champagnes are typically pricier, as the non-vintage Champagne and sparkling wines make up the majority of the market. Read More...
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