Reims, September 2021
Early September saw the publication of the 2022 Hachette Wine Guide, which awards stars to two Réserve Privée champagnes from the House of Chanoine Frères: Brut Sans Année (no vintage) and Brut Millésime 2014 (vintage).
Millésime 2014, a fine wine and a champagne of character
Described as “a delicious and appetizing champagne,” Réserve Privée Millésime 2014 was awarded two stars — “a remarkable wine.” It lends itself well to the gustatory harmonies of a good seasonal meal — why not among friends who are fond of wines of the terroir and good food?
Isabelle Tellier, Chef de Cave of the House and creator of these cuvées, is perfectly in phase with the opinion of the Hachette Wine Guide and its tasters:
“This 2014 vintage is about expression and freshness. It’s delicate and vivacious, a champagne that’s the ideal partner to a good meal. It has aged five years in the House’s cellars, which gives it fullness. For foods to go with it, I suggest a white meat as the main course — for example a grenadine of veal with apples, since autumn has just begun and we’re in the middle of apple season.
For the cheese, I lean towards a Chaource, a delicate and creamy soft cheese from the Aube, which is just near the Côte des Bar where the Pinots Noirs that dominate the blend of this 2014 vintage come from. And for dessert, I like to do a version of the famous Tarte Tatin — but with mangoes instead of apples!”
To fully appreciate its rich bouquet and long, harmonious finish, this 2014 vintage Brut should not be served too cold; between 10° and 12°C is right.
Chanoine Frères Réserve Privée Millésime 2014 can be found on the online store.
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Réserve Privée Brut, a champagne of character and a wine of the terroir
Already praised in 2018 and 2020, Réserve Privée Brut is now confirmed as a gilt-edged champagne with a new star — “a good wine” — in the 2022 Hachette Wine Guide, which calls it “a subtle and elegant champagne.”
Isabelle Tellier explained the “aromatic presence” and “fine long finish” praised by the Hachette Guide:
“— Réserve Privée Brut has body because it is structured by the Pinots Noirs from the Côte des Bar, largely from the village of Les Riceys, which is in the south, in the sunniest part of the appellation. Those grapes give it temperament, a rich palate, and fruity notes.
And its body makes it a good accompaniment for solid, simple dishes. I suggest a simple, enjoyable menu that’s easy to do for friends.
As the main course I’d suggest a tartare of white fishes or a minced chicken in sweet-and-sour sauce. For the cheese, I’d go with a Tomme d'Abondance from the Savoie, with its fruity taste with hazelnut flavors.
Speaking of hazelnuts, since it’s the season I suggest a moist cake with honey and hazelnuts as dessert.”
Chanoine Frères Réserve Privée Brut should be enjoyed ideally at between 8 and 10°C. You can find it on the online store.
