Taittinger Comtes de Champagne 2013 is a modern classic that oozes old school charm. Floral and nutty on the nose, but with pronounced fruit aromas of lemon, grapefruit and apricot. There is a lovely minty edge also, along with brioche and cream notes. The palate is expressive and gorgeous with saline notes behind the rich fruit and delicate bubbles. Drinking now but will age for years.

Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs is Taittinger’s marque release and is only made in exceptional years. The grapes, always 100% chardonnay are sourced from five Grand Cru villages - Avize, Chouilly, Cramant, Oger and Mesnil-sur-Oger. Only the juice from the first press is used and 5% of the blend is aged in new oak barrels to enhance the toasty element of the final wine. The wine is aged in bottle for at least 10 years before release.

Champagne Taittinger is the 3rd oldest house in Champagne, having started life in 1743 under the founder’s name, Jacques Fourneaux. It was purchased by Pierre Taittinger in 1932 who changed the name and turned it into one of the best-known names in the region. The Taittinger style has always been influenced by Chardonnay and their flagship wine, Comtes de Champagne, is made exclusively from this elegant grape.