Sense of Taste Tasting: Champagne & Sparkling
In the world of wine appreciation, there are a few names that stand out, and Tyson Stelzer is undoubtedly one of them. Hailed as the International Wine Communicator of the Year, Tyson's passion for Champagne and sparkling wines is nothing short of contagious. We again, had the pleasure of having Tyson host our Champagne and Sparkling Tasting, where the Sense of Taste store managers gathered to explore a range of bubbly delights.
In our Champagne & Sparkling tasting we explored 60 different flights, ranging from sparkling rosé to Champagne under $100 and over $100. Here are the standouts from this tasting.
Among the standout sparkling wines that left an indelible impression on us, the Louis Bouillot Grand Reserve emerged as a true gem. Priced at just $31.99 on sale, this sparkling wine from Burgundy scored a remarkable 91 overall. It offers incredible quality at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for those seeking value in their bubbles.
The 42 Degrees South Premier Cuvée Sparkling was another pleasant surprise. At the same affordable price point of $31.99, this Tasmanian sparkling wine showcases the richness of Pinot Noir's body and the refreshing citrusy brightness of Chardonnay. Aging on lees adds subtle earthy and charcuterie undertones, resulting in a well-balanced finish that earned it a well-deserved 91 rating.
For those looking for an exceptional Australian sparkling wine, the House of Arras Grand Vintage is a must-try. Our tasting panel bestowed a strong rating of 93 upon it. This Tasmanian gem, led by the expertise of Ed Carr, delivers a complex and characterful wine, thanks to extended maturation on yeast lees. It truly stands as Australia's best sparkling.
Up next, Ayala Brut Majeur, with its impressive rating of 92, stood out as another highlight of the tasting. This Champagne boasts a rich history and offers a perfect balance of fresh, citrusy notes with an underlying depth that makes it a delightful choice for any occasion.
And then there's the Bollinger Special Cuvée, which scored an impressive 95 from our tasting panel. This iconic Champagne needs no introduction, and it's no surprise that it stood out among the finest. On sale now for $84.99, it's a sparkling gem that simply cannot be missed.
Lastly, the Billecart Brut Rosé, with a robust 95 rating, is a true delight for wine professionals and enthusiasts alike. Composed of a blend of pinot noir, pinot meunier, and chardonnay, it boasts nuances of juicy red berry fruits while finishing dry and fresh.
This Champagne and sparkling tasting was nothing short of a spectacular success, with many favorites discovered and a wealth of knowledge gained. Many managers noted that this was their favourite tasting to date with high quality expressions showcased throughout the entire afternoon.
As we continue our journey in the world of wine, we invite you to explore our Sense of Taste selections collection on our website, where you can find the top-rated wines that stole the show at this remarkable event. Shop our top-rated Champagne & Sparkling wines online at Sense of Taste now!