Brut 2012

The 2012 vintage from Barons de Rothschild is made from equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, exclusively from grands crus and premiers crus. Only the cuvée, the juice of the first pressing, is used. The wine lay on its lees for seven to eight years, followed by at least a year's rest after disgorgement. You can taste it: the bouquet is expressive, spicy and layered, with peach and pear, then brioche.

On the palate it is full-bodied, structured and fleshy. The peach returns and leads into a salty, long finish. It is a champagne for the table: it goes with Norwegian lobster, sweetbreads with morels or a ripe Brie de Meaux. It also has lovely ageing potential. Serve it at 10 to 12 °C in a wide white wine glass so the aromas can unfold.