© Rare Champagne
RARE MILLÉSIME ROSÉ 2014
Rare Millésime Rosé 2014 is a bold, charismatic Champagne that combines nine crus, including seven grand and premier crus, to create a rosé defined by both structure and flair. On the nose and palate it reveals layered notes of wild strawberry, blood orange and dark chocolate, complemented by spice hints of star anise, pink peppercorn and kirsch. With eight years on the lees followed by time under cork, the wine gains depth and complexity, finishing with a clean, pleasant bitterness and fine bubbles that provide tension and grip. This is a vintage that challenges expectations and holds its own at the table. $500.
© Champagne Taittinger
TAITTINGER 2016
Taittinger 2016 blends equal portions of Chardonnay from the grands crus of the Côte des Blancs with Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims and the Vallée de la Marne. Aged five years on the lees, it presents precise, persistent bubbles and a layered aromatic profile of pear, kumquat, gingerbread and verbena, with floral honeysuckle accents. On the palate, citrus and peach are supported by a subtle minty lift and a lingering orange-peel note. Elegant and expressive, this vintage balances complexity and restraint, allowing the harvest character to shine through. $135.
© Champagne Pommery
POMMERY CUVÉE LOUISE 2005
Pommery Cuvée Louise 2005 is produced only in outstanding years and is sourced exclusively from three grand cru villages, reflecting the house’s emphasis on clarity and restraint. This low-dosage blend—60 percent Chardonnay and 40 percent Pinot Noir—spent more than 11 years aging in chalk cellars. Aromas of lime blossom and hawthorn lead into ripe stone fruit, followed by a mineral, structured palate that clearly expresses its terroir. Rather than dazzling with flash, Cuvée Louise demonstrates finesse through balance, purity and refined texture. $225.
© Martin Ray Winery
MARTIN RAY BLANC DE BLANCS 2019
Crafted in California’s Russian River Valley using méthode traditionnelle, the Martin Ray Blanc de Blancs 2019 is a 100 percent Chardonnay sparkling wine that showcases both craftsmanship and site expression. Fruit from dry-farmed, 40-year-old vines yields concentrated yet bright flavors. The profile is lean and complex, with crisp citrus, kumquat and green apple complemented by subtle salinity and meadow-sweet notes. Four years en tirage contribute delicate texture and fine bubbles. Extra brut in style, this wine is bracing and focused, offering the structure and versatility of old-world Blanc de Blancs while carrying a distinctive California brightness. $95.