For over a month now, we’ve been minimising the spread of covid-19 by staying indoors as much as possible. This means that many of us are having to find alternative ways to celebrate the happy events that nevertheless come along. So here are three fine bottles to open in case of an occasion that you don’t wish to miss out on…
2017 Chambolle Musigny from Laurent Roumier
Grandson of the legendary Georges Roumier, Laurent Roumier has been putting his all into continuing the family tradition since 1991. Quite reserved by nature, this wine maker is more at ease in the vineyard than with journalists. So whilst you may not have heard of him, you can trust that his work in the production of Pinot Noir is masterful. We recommend his Chambolle-Musigny, a cuvée that comes from five perfectly exposed parcels around the village. The vinification follows pure, Burgundy tradition and the result resembles the neighbouring premiers crus. This wine is a model of finesse and elegance that will undoubtedly delight Burgundy fans.
2015 Cornas Renaissance from Auguste Clape
If you have been with us for a while, you’ll know that Auguste Clape is an iDealwine favourite. Taken up by Pierre Clape two years ago, the domain has become a major figure in the Cornas appellation thanks to Pierre’s father, the illustrious Auguste Clape. With just eight hectares of vines, the quantities produced rarely suffice for the domain’s growing number of fans. This means the bottles are hotly fought over the moment they leave the property. And the Cornas Renaissance cuvée is no exception, with La Revue du vin de France commenting that ‘Renaissance is expressive, with notes of spice and biter cacao. From four, distinct parcels, the Cornas variety is expressed with beautiful depth. It has a long and persistent underscore, with high-class tannins. And you shouldn’t rush to open it, even though it’s a good wine in its youth’. What might you serve it with? Its strength and texture will make it a wonderful accompaniment for orange duck.
Royale Réserve non dosée from Philipponnat
Fancy some fizz? If you’re a fan of a lively Champagne, you absolutely must try the Royal Réserve non dosée by Philipponnat. Made mainly from parcels of premier and grand cru, this cuvée is then blended with the property’s reserve wine. Malolactic fermentation is only partially carried out, reinforcing the wine’s freshness and acidity. Plus, there is nothing added to the wine before bottling, making the resulting champagne particularly sharp.
