Today I felt like a real novice. Despite 11 years of serious wine study both here and abroad, I had never been to a function held by the Institute of Masters of Wine. Today was the Annual Champagne Tasting. Armed with my palate and my pen, I set off to attend the tasting. Its been a rough few weeks and I expect it will only get more complex with the number of tastings about town. I started with the non-vintage champagnes and was struck by a few including the Henri Goutorbe Cuvee Prestige Brut NV with its delicious raspberry notes. I was sure there had been a bit of skin contact or that the majority of the blend was pinot noir. While doing some research on the subject, I stumbled upon Wine & Spirits Correspondent Peter Liem’s Blog where he gives some interesting information and insight into this producer. I also enjoyed the Alfred Gratien Brut Classique NV which had tropical fruit notes and a touch of something floral and minerally. The Alfred Gratien Cuvee Paradis NV was also a find with nutty, almond and fruit notes. The Bruno Paillard Premiere Cuvee NV was fabulous with its biscuity and red fruit notes. Finally, the Vilmart Grand Cellier Brut NV was seductive and well rounded. Truly a find for me. Skurnik is the importer of a number of these champagnes.

I moved on to the Blancs de Blancs table but was slightly more distracted. I missed a number of great champagnes I am sure but I was able to taste the Andre Jacquart Mesnil Experience and the Brut Experience, both NV. The former is the more prestigious of the two and it was exceptional, butter and citrus notes abounded. I also tried the Besserat de Bellefon, Cuvee des Moines, blanc de blancs NV. Lemon, mineral and nutty flavors were the ones that struck me immediately. I was running out of stream when I happened into a conversation with noted Champagne Expert, Ed McCarthy. He gave me a few suggestions and I proceeded to follow his advice, obviously.

I tried two roses truly worthy of note. The Bollinger Brut Rose’ NV and the Perrier-Jouet Fleur de Champagne Rose 2002. I may just consider buying a bottle of either or both. I arrived at the tasting a bit late and therefore missed some of the gems, including the Krug 1996 and the Pol Roger Brut Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill 1998. I did however get to taste the Veuve Clicquot Rare Vintage 1988. It knocked my socks off and was truly something to write home about, much to my surprise. It was simply wonderful, nutty with butter, almond and white fruit notes. It was delicate and persistent at the same time. In fact, I poured myself a bit more, sat down and reflected on how Champagne, more than 80% of the wines I drink, always gives me a feeling of deep satisfaction and warmth in my soul. Many thanks to the Institute, it was a memorable experience.