Champagne Gaston Burtin, Brut 2019
This Champagne from Epernay combines grapes from 50 villages into a blend of Meunier, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Nearly half consists of reserve wines from a solera system, which keeps the style consistent year after year. The wine ages for at least three years in the cellar before being released to the market.
What you smell
Ripe stone fruit like peach and apricot, with a bready note of brioche indicating the long aging on lees.
What you taste
Stone fruit and a hint of honey, with a round, generous structure. The fine, persistent mousse and fresh acidity keep it crisp and balanced, preventing it from becoming heavy.
How it's made
Blend of 53% Meunier, 26% Chardonnay, and 21% Pinot Noir, supplemented with 49% reserve wines from a solera system. Minimum three years of aging on lees. Dosage of 8 grams per liter, which gives the wine a dry but approachable finish.
Serve
Serve chilled, around 8 to 10 degrees Celsius. Use a tulip-shaped glass instead of a narrow flute to allow the aromas to develop.
Pairs well with
-
Smoked salmon on blini: the fresh acidity cuts through the oily fish, and the bready notes complement the blini.
-
Oysters: the lively mousse and acidity enhance the salty oceanic flavour.
-
Fried chicken or tempura: the bubbles and freshness cleanse your palate after each rich, crispy bite.