Chartogne-Taillet Chemin de Reims 2017 Disg. June 2021

Chartogne-Taillet Chemin de Reims is a single-plot Champagne of 85 per cent Chardonnay and 15 per cent Arbanne, one of the region’s almost-extinct heirloom varieties.

The vineyard is a shade over one hectare at Merfy, facing south to south-east, planted in 1980, 1995 and 2011. Its soils are Thanetian sands, very rich in iron, layered to varying depths above a sandstone base, and the site transmits itself unusually clearly into the wine — the Chardonnay grown here takes on a fullness, structure and almost ferric texture that the estate’s other plots do not give. Arbanne survives on roughly 2.5 hectares across the whole of Champagne, so its presence in a blend at all is notable. Both varieties were raised in a combination of casks of 350 to 600 litres and tank, with Alexandre Chartogne choosing tighter-grained oak for this cuvée and pairing it with regular topping up and a low dosage to keep the site expression intact. This is the most powerful and vinous wine in the range.

Drinking now and good for six to eight years. Serve at about 8°C with roast chicken, grilled crayfish or a plate of aged Comté.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.