Grower Champagne - H. Goutorbe NV "Prestige" Premier Cru

£25.80
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Tasting notes
Rich, fruity with fine bubbles. Perfect as an aperitif or with canapés and seafood.

Why we recommend this wine
We came across Goutorbe somewhat serendipitously (see our trip notes click here) and thought that it was pretty good – good enough for us to visit them every time we are in Champagne to replenish our stocks at home.

The wine
This champagne is a blend of Pinot Noir 70%, Pinot Meunier 5% and Chardonnay 25% from several vintages with the addition 15% reserve wines that add greater complexity. Wine critics regularly give points around 90 which makes this a well regarded champagne.

The wine estate
Goutorbe makes what is referred to as Grower Champagne. In Champagne a large proportion of the vineyards are family owned and worked. Traditionally they have sold their grapes to the Champagne “Houses” who then make the champagne. But an increasing number of families who own the better vineyards have gone into making their champagne. Hence the term Grower Champagne.
Goutorbe, a third generation champagne maker, is based in the village of Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne area of Champagne. Robert Parker rates this maker as Very Good to Excellent (Parker’s Wine Buyer’s Guide No 7)
champagne-henri-goutorbe.com

Food and wine
Champagne is better if it has been opened and allowed to breathe for 20 to 30 minutes before drinking. We didn’t believe it when we were first advised to do this but it really works. Just open the bottle and leave it in the fridge; it will not lose its bubbles but will taste much better.
This champagne has rich, white fruit flavours with good acidity so will match food that does not have overpowering flavours such as white meats and seafood. Also see our guide to pairing food and wine here.

Did you know?
Champagne most times is made from 3 grapes; 2 red and 1 white. They are Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay known for richness, fruitiness and refinement respectively.