Special Club Champagne – Terroir and Talent

While many know Champagne through famous houses like Taittinger, Krug, Lanson, Moët & Chandon and Dom Pérignon, there is a growing movement of Récoltants-Manipulants (grower-producers) who farm their own vineyards and craft wines that express their unique terroir. Among the elite is Le Club Trésors de Champagne, a group (currently of) 25 exceptional growers (including the three featured producers below) united by a commitment to quality, authenticity, and terroir expression. Within Le Club, the pinnacle of achievement is the Special Club — a bottle shape and designation reserved only for the very best cuvée(s) each grower produces in outstanding vintages. To be chosen as a Special Club Champagne, a wine must pass multiple blind tastings by a jury of fellow Le Club members and external oenologists, both as a still base wine and also post-second fermentation, generally 3+ years later before the wine is considered for commercial release. If the jury all agree that the wine merits the honour of carrying the Special Club label then it is permitted to be sold as a Special Club Champagne, in the distinctive, slightly antique-shaped bottle first used in 1971, signaling to collectors and connoisseurs that they are holding something rare and something that represents the height of Champagne craftsmanship.

wine review: Les Jamelles Rouge Osé 2024 now at LCBO

Some red wines truly shine when served chilled, and Rouge Osé 2024 from Les Jamelles is the perfect introduction to that refreshing style. Just as a crisp rosé finds its stride on a hot summer’s day, this lively, light-bodied red shows how wonderfully vibrant and quaffable chilled reds can be. In the glass, Rouge Osé shimmers a bright ruby red. Aromas of cran-cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry leap out, joined by perfumed floral notes, a touch of spice, and a hint of cool menthol. The palate is crisp, crunchy, and bursting with red fruit, delivering both freshness and lift. Low tannins and a silky texture make it irresistibly drinkable, especially when slightly chilled in the summer sun. Food pairings? Think light and easy: charcuterie boards, grilled fish, fresh tartare, white meats, or simply pizza with friends. But make no mistake—this wine is equally enjoyable all on its own, served chilled on a warm afternoon. At $17.95 (LCBO), it’s a great deal. Les Jamelles Rouge Osé is fun, refreshing, and a must-try for anyone curious about chilled reds. Highly recommend checking it out this summer and discovering for yourself just how great a light-bodied red can be when served cold. Tasted August 2025. 89 points. Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca

Taittinger Uncorked: From Roman Stone to Michelin Stars

My visit to Taittinger was not only a walk through centuries of winemaking excellence, but also a celebration of Champagne’s future, where tradition and innovation unite in perfect harmony. A visit to Reims, France, would be incomplete without a stop at Maison Taittinger. From the awe-inspiring chalk cellars and historic Abbey remnants to the refined gastronomic experiences at Polychrome, it’s an immersion into the soul of Champagne.

wine review: Les Jamelles Chardonnay 2022 Pays d’Oc France now available at LCBO

From the sun-drenched Pays d'Oc region, the Les Jamelles Chardonnay 2022 impresses with its inviting aromas of tropical, orchard, and stone fruits, accented by delicate floral notes. On the palate, it reveals a creamy texture that echoes the expressive bouquet, culminating in a finish that lingers with the same vibrant fruitiness. This Chardonnay is a great value, offering a versatile style that pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, from corn on the cob to charcuterie to roasted poultry and hearty autumn fare. Enjoyable now through 2026. Tasted August 2026. 89 points. Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca

wine review: Les Jamelles Sauvignon Blanc 2022, Pays d’Oc, France

For those who seek a value-priced Sauvignon Blanc that strays from the often typical herbaceous profile, Les Jamelles Sauvignon Blanc is a must try. Light to medium body, the palate is greeted with a delightful medley of exotic fruits, complemented by a hint of lemongrass and a crisp citrus edge. The subtle salinity adds an intriguing layer, persisting through the clean and refreshing finish. This Sauvignon Blanc is versatile and food-friendly, making it an ideal companion for various occasions. Whether you're lounging poolside on a warm summer day, enjoying light seafood dishes, or savoring mildly spicy takeout, this wine enhances the experience with its appealing and accessible style. Even those who typically shy away from Sauvignon Blanc may find themselves charmed by its refreshing and well-rounded nature, with its subtle herbaceous notes providing just enough aromatic and flavour complexity to keep things interesting. Tasted August 2024. 88 points - Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca

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