Now, I am a Champagne gal, I don’t profess to know all about Champagne but I adore a glass or two of the bubbly stuff. Some varieties I prefer over others and this particular Champagne is one of my firm favourites.
Jacquart came about in the 1960s when a group of grape growers realised they needed to make their own Champagne to build their own sustainable business instead of supplying grapes to the Grande Marques (meaning members of the Syndicat des Grandes Marques, a prestigious organisation composed of many of Champagne’s most famous houses).
Champagne Jacquart was released in the early 1960s and the name Mosaique was given to represent all the grower families who joined together to create the Champagne and realise their vision.
Champagne is created by adding natural yeast to the grape juice in temperature controlled vats. It is the second fermentation which contributes to the Champagne Jacquart style and this reduces acidity naturally.
The wine is bottled to begin it’s second fermentation. For the Jacquart Mosaique this is 3 years. Vintage wines take between 5 to 6 years.
Once the cork has popped (a satisfying noise) the Champagne pours in a whirlpool of bubbles, settling to a delicate fizz. It is made up of:
Chardonnay (35-40%) giving freshness
Pinot Noir (30-35%) adding structure
Pinot Meuniet (25-30%) bringing fruit
The Champagne is that of a pale yellow with flashes of gold. the initial aromas give pear, a slight candied lemon peel and when the Champagne has settled, you can smell honey with a toasty hint.
The flavour is a full and joyous experience. green apple, a hint of melon with a mineral on the way out. It is intense, sharp and a pleasure to drink. it would be a fine accompaniment to cheese or fish. As it is around £25 per bottle from most good supermarkets, it is ideal for sharing with friends on a special occasion.
This Champagne is a regular award winner and I can see why. It is a definite winner with me. well worth the price for that special occasion or reunion.
à votre santé
