Flatiron Wines & Spirits SF

The Adrien Renoir Champagne Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut ‘Les Épinettes’ 2019 is an exceptional single-vineyard Champagne made exclusively from 100% Pinot Noir. Sourced from the ‘Les Épinettes’ lieu-dit in the Grand Cru village of Verzy, located in the Montagne de Reims, this wine reflects the maturity of vines planted in 1971 and the Renoir family’s commitment to organic and biodynamic viticulture. The meticulous winemaking includes 36 months of aging on lees, highlighting the complexity and depth of this remarkable terroir. Bottled as Extra Brut, it emphasizes precision and purity.

On the nose, this Champagne offers a compelling bouquet of ripe orchard fruits, dried fruits, hazelnuts, and almonds, with hints of eau-de-vie and subtle toasty nuances. On the palate, it is both crisp and creamy, with vibrant acidity and a smooth texture that showcase the power and finesse of Verzy’s Grand Cru terroir. The finish is long and mineral-driven, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and complexity.

This Champagne pairs beautifully with roasted white meats, fish dishes, or creamy risottos, where its richness and freshness complement a variety of flavors. While enjoyable now for its luxurious texture and balance, the Adrien Renoir ‘Les Épinettes’ 2019 will reward cellaring over the next 5–7 years, unveiling even greater nuance and sophistication. It is a testament to Adrien Renoir’s craftsmanship and the unique expression of Grand Cru Pinot Noir.

The André Clouet Grand Cru Brut Rosé NV is an elegant and expressive Champagne made entirely from 100% Pinot Noir, sourced from the Grand Cru vineyards of Bouzy and Ambonnay. Known for its rich Pinot Noir expressions, the house of André Clouet uses a traditional method of blending approximately 8% Bouzy red wine to achieve its delicate salmon hue and layered complexity. Vinified with minimal dosage, this Brut rosé emphasizes purity and the vibrant character of its terroir.

On the nose, this Champagne offers inviting aromas of wild strawberries, raspberries, and pomegranate, interwoven with subtle floral notes of cherry blossom and a chalky minerality. The palate is rich yet finely balanced, with a creamy mousse and vibrant acidity supporting flavors of red berries, citrus zest, and a hint of spice. Its long, refined finish showcases both minerality and elegance.

This versatile rosé pairs beautifully with duck breast in raspberry sauce, salmon tartare, or creamy cheeses like Brie. It also makes a delightful aperitif or celebratory toast. While enjoyable now for its freshness and balance, the André Clouet Grand Cru Brut Rosé NV will benefit from 2–3 years of cellaring, gaining additional nuance and depth. It is a superb example of the expressive potential of Grand Cru Pinot Noir in Champagne.

Exceptional value when comparing to a similar cuvee from the other Grande Marques. A blend of all three main Champagne grapes, partially fermented in barrel, with a large portion of reserve wines.

The Chartogne-Taillet Champagne Brut Cuvée Sainte Anne NV is a refined and expressive Champagne from the historic village of Merfy in the Montagne de Reims. This cuvée is typically a blend of equal parts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, sourced from organically farmed estate vineyards that have been family-owned since 1485. Fermented with native yeasts and aged in older oak barrels, the wine undergoes minimal filtration, preserving its authentic character. A modest dosage of around 4 g/L ensures a Brut style that balances richness and vibrancy.

On the nose, this Champagne reveals inviting aromas of ripe orchard fruits, including apple and pear, complemented by notes of brioche, toasted almonds, and delicate floral undertones. The palate is generous and well-structured, with a fine mousse and lively acidity carrying flavors of citrus zest, red berries, and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and elegant, showcasing balance and finesse.

This versatile Champagne pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, roasted poultry, or creamy cheeses, making it suitable for both celebratory moments and refined dining. While approachable now for its freshness and vibrancy, the Chartogne-Taillet Cuvée Sainte Anne NV will reward cellaring over the next 2–3 years, gaining additional nuance and depth. It is a superb representation of the Chartogne-Taillet family’s dedication to terroir-driven Champagne.

One of our favorite Champagnes at this price point.

The Jacques Lassaigne Champagne Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut ‘Les Vignes de Montgueux’ NV is a vibrant expression of 100% Chardonnay, showcasing the unique terroir of Montgueux, often referred to as the “Montrachet of Champagne.” Crafted by the Lassaigne family, this cuvée is a blend of grapes from 7 to 9 distinct parcels and three successive vintages. Vinified with minimal intervention, the wine undergoes extended lees aging to develop complexity and is bottled with minimal dosage, resulting in an Extra Brut style that emphasizes freshness and precision.

On the nose, this Champagne opens with lively aromas of green apples, white peach, and freshly baked bread, accented by notes of pastry cream and subtle chalky minerality. The palate is taut and racy, offering vibrant acidity and flavors of citrus and orchard fruits, leading to a long, chalky finish that underscores its purity and finesse.

This Champagne pairs beautifully with oysters, seared scallops, or sushi, where its minerality and crisp acidity elevate the flavors of the dish. It also makes a sophisticated aperitif, setting the tone for any refined occasion. While already approachable for its freshness and energy, the Jacques Lassaigne ‘Les Vignes de Montgueux’ NV will reward careful cellaring over the next 2–3 years, unveiling even greater nuance and complexity. It is a testament to the Lassaigne family’s mastery of terroir-driven Champagne.