Royale Réserve casket

With the Royale Réserve, Philipponnat shows how the house in Aÿ understands its champagne: powerful, but never heavy. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier from grands crus and premiers crus form the base. A share of 20 to 30% reserve wines, aged for three years in wood, brings depth and a round texture.

The nose recalls honeyed fruit, dried white blossom, peach and butter. On the palate, mirabelle plum and citrus meet a supple structure, and a biscuit note lingers at the end. Drink it at around 8°C, not ice cold, ideally in a white wine glass so the aromas can unfold. It accompanies an aperitif, poultry, smoked salmon, scampi carpaccio and seafood. The bottle comes in a gift box, a fitting presentation for presents and invitations.