Champagne of Etienne Calsac Les Rocheforts

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

The Champagne of Etienne Calsac Les Rocheforts is 100% Chardonnay, aged and vinified in barrels and stainless steel vats. It has that classic Champagne color, and is a unique, extremely aromatic drink. On the nose, you get white flowers, fresh citrus, ginger peel, and dried pineapple. It has a fresh taste, with notes of Brioche, citrus, and apples, and subtle floral hints.

PREPARATION AND PAIRINGS

The Les Rocheforts by Etienne Calsac is great with cheeses, especially fresh ones like Mozzarella. It’s wonderful to pair with oysters and caviar, as well as fish dishes. Try it with rich fish, like salmon and tuna, or with an oil-based pasta with mussels and clams.

THE RISING STAR

Etienne Calsac is one of the rising superstars of Champagne. In 2010, at only the age of 26, he took over his grandparents’ vineyards in Avize. The grapes his grandparents grew were originally sold to other, larger houses, but Etienne wanted to change that. He envisioned his own domaine, and thus, Champagne Calsac was born. Using only organic farming methods, and no chemicals or pesticides, he began making his own terroir Champagne with meticulous attention to each detail. He likes to experiment with his Champagnes, and it works out. His drinks are stars, receiving great reviews and attaining considerable popularity. He is young yet, and his name and reputation will no doubt continue to rise.

Storage Instructions

Fine sparkling wine must be handled with care. For short-term storage (a few days to a month), you can keep your bottle upright—but away from bright or artificial light. For long-term storage, especially for vintage cuvées, you must store the bottles on their side in a wine rack or cellar to keep the cork from drying out. The ideal temperature for storage is between 7 to 10°C. Once opened, a bottle will be good for 1 to 3 days standing upright in the refrigerator.