Chartogne-Taillet
Brut Cuvée St Anne

Chartogne-Taillet appreciates the significance of terroir. Theirs is an example of just how wonderful wines can be simply because of how talented and conscientious they are. Their land, while good (Merfy is "84%" on the Echelle de Crus) is not aristocratic. The Cuvee Saint Anne is essentially 50-50 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay "with the rest Meunier!" as Chartognes put it.  The wine is usually marked by sauteed apples and butter, but this time it's all braised beef, shiitakes and honey-mushroom; the palate starts to conform to type, silky and tangy and more apple now; as stylish and reliable as always. It's a very good intro to farmer-fizz; its flavors are close enough to the mainstream but very few negoçiant Champagnes have this clarity, specificity and articulation.

Wine Spectator : 92 Points Oct 2006

"Sparkling A graceful yet sinewy bubbly, exuding whole-grain bread, mineral, honey and citrus flavors. Well-balanced and on the dry side, with a firm structure and a long, mineral- and vanilla-tinged finish."

This Champagne is definitely "Farmer Fizz" having been lovingly crafted from start to finish on a single estate.  "Farmer Fizz" is a reflection of the growing season and how the farmer/wine maker adjusted to the conditions.  The price you pay for "Grower Champagne" is a reflection of what it actually cost the vigneron to make the wine not what a giant corporation pays to promote their wine.  "Framer Fizz" tastes different vintage to vintage because the wine maker isn't trying to shove a square peg into a round hole simply to create a wine that tastes the same year after year.  We love small producers.  Try a Bottle of "Grower Champagne" next time you have a special occasion or are simply in the mood.