Personal advice
Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2014 Sold out
Taittinger 2008 Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blanc
Taittinger 2006 Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs Sold out
Taittinger 2000 Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs
Taittinger 2013 Comtes de Champagne Bl. de Blancs
Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2012
Taittinger 2005 Comtes de Champagne Rose Magnum
Comtes de Champagne, like Dom Pérignon, is a delight even when young. Rare exceptions prove the rule. As a pure Chardonnay, Blanc de Blancs is even more mineral and fresh than Dom Pérignon. However, it's more of a lush, creamy Chardonnay than a firm, acidic one. This is due to the long lees aging, which contributes to an irresistible flavor profile: lemon, exotic fruits, vanilla, toast with sea salt butter, and roasted almonds are a delight even when young. With age, nutty notes, caramel, and sometimes even coffee emerge.
Comtes is the first great Blanc de Blancs cuvée in Champagne, excluding Salon, which had already been produced in small quantities. The 1952 Comtes de Champagne was released in the 1960s. It is named after Thibault IV, Comtes de Champagne. Thibault brought the ancestor of Chardonnay to Champagne as a seedling from the Crusades. Comtes is extremely long-aging. Most of the old Comtes, even the 1952, are still impressive today if they have been perfectly aged. Unlike the classic Salon or Clos du Mesnil, however, Comtes de Champagne does not require long ageing. Even young, it is a delight with aromas of lemon, exotic fruits, and toast.
Which vintages do we recommend? 2005 already offers wonderfully nutty aromas. 2006 has more apple flavors (tart) than lemon and plenty of power. 2006 is also in great shape. 2004 is more precise, elegant, and subtle. 2000 and 2002 are both in great shape.
Among the younger vintages, 2013 and 2012 are certainly enjoyable, although it's worth waiting for. With 2008, you'll need patience.
Among the rosés, the 2012, 2009, 2007, 2006, and 2005 are good to drink. The 2008 should be kept