Taittinger - 2006 Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs

“Give me a Taittinger Blanc de Blancs ... It isn’t very well known, but it is the best champagne in the world.” James Bond, Casino Royale, 1951

In the world of Champagne, one name stands out as a symbol of tradition, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence - Taittinger. For nearly a century, the Taittinger family has overseen the Champagne House, taking their commitment to the art of winemaking to new heights. Let’s delve into the fascinating story of the estate and their 2006 Taittinger Champagne, a vintage that exemplifies the family's dedication and the unique characteristics of their vineyards.

The Legacy – A Commitment to The Name

The Taittinger family has held the reins of the Champagne House for almost a century, and their unwavering dedication to the pursuit of excellence is evident in every bottle. Even the world-famous and award-winning author of the James Bond book series, Ian Flemming, recognized the Champagnes potential from the beginning! In his book Casino Royale Flemming wrote: “Give me a Taittinger Blanc de Blancs...It isn’t very well known, but it is the best champagne in the world.” (James Bond, Casino Royale, 1951).

Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger, who has embodied the houses commitment for four decades, works closely with his son, Clovis, and his daughter, Vitalie, in running the Champagne House. This close-knit family trio ensures that the name on the bottle represents not just a history of skill and knowledge but also a commitment to the future.

The Vineyard

Taittinger's pursuit of quality is mirrored in its extensive vineyard holdings, spanning 288 hectares. As the third-largest vineyard owner in the Champagne region, the team at Taittinger has honed their skills in caring for the vines meticulously. Their vineyards are located across the 'Côte des Blancs,' the 'Vallée de la Marne,' and the 'Montagne de Reims,' with 37% Chardonnay, 48% Pinot Noir, and 15% Pinot Meunier vines.

Great care is given to these natural treasures, and the grapes are grown using traditional and sustainable methods. From pruning to harvesting, Taittinger ensures the best raw material, making excellence a reality, not a myth.

The Production – A Philosophy

Taittinger's approach to winemaking is rooted in humility and tranquility. The experience and passion of their winegrowers give way to the expertise of the Cellar Master, who carefully selects and blends the potential of each vintage. Chardonnay plays a central role in Taittinger's blends, contributing to their unique style.

In Champagne, patience is not just a virtue; it's a necessity. Time is the alchemist that transforms grapes into fine wine. Weather and time work together to infuse the grapes and vines with life and strength. The maturation process in the chalk quarries beneath the former Saint-Nicaise Abbey is where the true craftsmanship of Taittinger Champagne is unveiled and where the wine develops its complexity and character.

2006 Comtes de Champagne - A Vintage to Remember

AG98 “We started with the 2006 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne, which is every bit as racy and seductive as it has always been. It’s a great, great vintage for Comtes.”

The 2006 vintage of Comtes de Champagne is a remarkable expression of the Taittinger style. With rich and complex aromas of white and citrus fruit, white flowers, and a distinct minerality, this vintage represents a perfect blend of maturity and delicacy. The palate reveals vibrant and sophisticated notes, with a smooth, full-bodied mid-palate and a delicate, long-lasting finish.

On A Personal Note

I had the privilege of opening one of Taittinger’s finest , the 2006 Comtes de Champagne, as a generous gift from Grand Cru Liquid Assets. At first, the Champagne seemed closed off, guarding its secrets like a well-kept mystery. However, after breathing for a brief moment, it began to unveil its full character to me. In the nose, playful yet sophisticated notes of citrus revealed themselves, beautifully harmonizing with the rich and sweet aromas of freshly baked brioche. On the palate I was greeted by an impressive amount of perlage, animating to drink more after every sip. The Champagnes aromas were reciprocated on the palate, melting together and creating an experience that resembled biting into a buttery French pastry filled with a fresh and creamy lemon curd filling with a lasting finish. Full-bodied and rich, yet vibrant and zesty, Taittinger’s 2006 Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs left me wanting more after every sip and I was genuinely sad when I saw that the bottle had reached its end.

Taittinger Style Grand Cru – Quality Over Quantity

The Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs is the pinnacle of the Taittinger style, made exclusively from white Chardonnay grapes from the prestigious Côte des Blancs region, which spans only 20 km, is 95% planted with Chardonnay vines. This region, with its chalky soil, is ideal for growing white grapes, resulting in wines with aromatic sophistication. Only grapes from extraordinary harvests are selected for Comtes de Champagne.

Taittinger's emphasis is always on quality over quantity. Production years for Comtes de Champagne are rare, as only exceptional harvests make the cut. Since the first cuvée in 1952, only 48 great vintages have been produced. Each bottle is a testament to the dedication and passion of the Taittinger Champagne House.

A Testament Of Excellence

The 2006 Taittinger Champagne, and particularly the Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs, is a testament to the Taittinger family's commitment to excellence. With a deep-rooted history, exceptional vineyards, and a winemaking philosophy centered on patience and precision, Taittinger has produced a Champagne that epitomizes sophistication and elegance. Whether you're a connoisseur or an enthusiast, indulging in the 2006 Taittinger isn’t only delicious, it’s becoming a part of history and tradition, representing the enduring legacy of a Champagne House that truly understands the art of winemaking.

Written by: Arabella Maislinger