Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne, Vintage 2015, Champagne, France, White – Brut, 75cl

Description Composition: Pinot Noir 33% Meunier 33% Chardonnay 33% Notes: Woody notes Fresh hazelnuts, dried pine needles and cedar Liquorice Yellow fruits Nectarines Pairing: Meat Foie Gras mi-cuit, Carbonnade Flamande, Beef Wellington Mushrooms Pan-fried wild mushrooms, mushroom risotto Cheese Goat’s and sheep’s cheese The 2015 vintage 2015 in Champagne After 1976 and 2003, 2015 was right up there as France’s third hottest year since 1951. From mid-May, drought conditions went from bad to worse and lasted until the second half of August. For three long months, Champagne was marked by unprecedented temperatures which only marginally slowed development in the grapes. Quite unexpectedly, from 15 August torrential rain lashed the vineyards for two whole weeks. At the same time, thankfully, the temperatures dropped markedly and reduced the risk of disease. The grapes were then able to flourish without affecting ripening or disrupting the harvest. Erring on the side of caution, harvesting was scrupulously monitored across the entire region in order to ensure perfect ripeness and adequate sugar levels (potential alcohol). The grapes were in perfect health and the ripe grape must promised full, rounded wines.