2008 Nicolas Feuillate Palmes d'Or

The fifth edition of this wine, the 2008 Champagne Palmes D'Or Brut is a rosé de saignée Pinot Noir from two regions: 50% Bouzy and the other half Les Ricey. (Previous vintages were 2000, 2002, 2004, and 2006.) It pours a copper/ruby color and is very appealing on the nose, with spicy and intense notes of fig and kirsch (almost like a liqueur or dessert wine), as well as baking spices and cinnamon. Entirely destemmed fruit before maceration contributes to its fruitcake aromas, and the elegant mousse enhances the wine’s spice notes. It’s full on the palate, with a rich texture and structure, making it ideal to pair with crystalline salty cheese, spices, nuts, or chocolate and cherries. Drink from 2025 to 2045. While I don't know how it will age exactly, it shows a more mature, savory character. Although I prefer the Blanc personally, this has a contemplative profile and should never be served too cold. Allow the tannins to soften and the wine’s freshness to emerge as it opens. Based in Chouilly, all of the wines from Nicolas Feuillatte are raised in stainless steel vats, and oak is only used for the liqueur de tirage.