Champagne Jacquesson 'Degorgement Tardif' - 'Cuvee 740'

This is a fine French champagne from 2012. Jacquesson has a long - standing history, even predating Krug. In fact, Joseph Krug once helped with winemaking here before establishing his own champagne brand. Since 1980, brothers Laurent and Jean - Hervé Chiquet have run the estate, emphasizing quality over consistency. They release a new cuvee annually to craft the best champagne, even if it varies from year to year. The 740 Degorgement Tardif is truly exceptional. A blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, it spends 96 months on the lees. After sediment removal (disgorgement), a bit of oxygen enters the bottle, and over time, oxygen can seep through the cork. Without the lees, the champagne begins to age. You can either enjoy it right away or age it for a unique tasting experience. When you take a sip, you'll detect flavors of candied lemon, dried fruits, and a touch of nuttiness. It's perfect as an aperitif or paired with oysters and light shellfish.

How to use: You can pour this champagne into a champagne flute to best enjoy its bubbles and aroma. It can be served as an aperitif before a meal to whet your appetite, or paired with oysters and light shellfish during the meal. When opening the bottle, tilt it at a 45 - degree angle and gently twist the bottle while holding the cork to avoid any mess. Remember not to shake the bottle before opening. Storage: Keep the champagne in a cool, dark place, ideally a wine cellar or a refrigerator. If you want to age it, store it horizontally so that the cork stays moist. Enjoy it within a few days after opening, and remember to keep it refrigerated after opening to maintain its freshness.