In my experience, vins clairs tastings are a rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of the wine before the bubbles, and to imagine their development over time; they are a unique foray into the magical kingdom of champagne.
Here in Champagne, one often says that champagne is first and foremost a wine. However the characteristics of this wine change significantly with the adding of the dosage (a mixture of base wine and cane sugar) at the time of disgorging.
‘Tis the season for Oscar parties. If you really want to impress your friends during this Sunday’s festivities, don your tux or gown, get behind the bar, and whip up some of these cocktails inspired by some of the nominees.
Golden with a delicate mousse. Mineral nose with a hint of fresh almonds. Complex, intense champagne, with lots of citrus (grapefruit, Meyer lemon, tangerine) flavors. Long pastry finish.
Pale yellow color. Delicate white blossom and mineral (iodine) nose. Quite linear champagne, almost flinty on the palate, some citrus notes and a lingering saline finish. Pair with sashimi.