We’re back in France this week, tasting with our producers across Burgundy. One of our favorite things about visiting France is (of course) eating; and one of our favorite aspects of a French meal is how common it is to begin with Champagne. Bubbles here aren’t limited to occasions or celebrations – they’re simply a delightful and delicious way to start a meal.
With that in mind, today we’re suggesting a terrific everyday Champagne from our newest producer: RH Coutier. The Coutiers are an old family in Ambonnay (there since 1619), and today produce small-batch Champagnes exclusively from their own organic Grand Cru vineyards. Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls the Coutier wines “gorgeous…all showing the natural richness of Ambonnay,” and writing they “have been favorites of mine for years, because of their quality, personality, and exceedingly fair prices.”
Courtier’s base “Cuvée Tradition” is simply exquisite grower Champagne at a remarkable price – every time we open it at the Depot it steals the show. It’s super expressive exploding from the glass with notes of spring flowers, pear, raspberries, herbs and brioche. At 6g dosage and a blend of 70% pinot noir and 30% chardonnay it’s dry but full of fruit, and the texture is at once lush and crisp.
Start your next meal with some bubbles.
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Coutier Champagne “Tradition” NV
bottle price: $54
