Armand de Brignac Brut Blanc de Blancs NV
The brand developed from the start to be “the most expensive champagne in the world,” now owned by Jay Z and LVMH
Grape Makeup:
100% Chardonnay
Sweetness Level:
Brut
Price:
$$$
Cellar:
5-10 years
Category:
Celebration
Photos
What
The brand originally developed by the family-owned house Cattier to be “the most expensive champagne in the world,” which was acquired by Jay Z in 2014 and, since 2021, has been 50% owned by luxury champagne behemoth LVMH.
Where
Chigny-les-Roses, Montagne de Reims; 33 hectares mainly in Chigny-les-Roses, Ludes and Rilly-la-Montagne, all in the Montagne de Reims (only Premier and Grand Cru fruit goes into Armand de Brignac); half the fruit for the Blanc de Blanc comes from Grand Crus Cramant, Avize and Oger among others in the Côte des Blancs and half comes from the Montagne de Reims.
Why
Despite much scepticism, driven at least in part by the extremely flashy packaging (not cheap – each bottle is coated in metal, hand labelled with thick pewter labels and then polished – also, quite protective against light strike) and ambitious pricing, the liquid in the bottle has always been more carefully crafted than it needed to be; their ex-chef de cave Émilien Boutillat now holds that title at Piper-Heidsieck and Rare and remains the youngest person to have held this prestigious title.
What Else
A new release of the brand’s Blanc de Noirs, already its most exclusive cuvée, has just hit the market – assemblage four (A4) was aged for seven years on lees – but will initially only be available as part of a Collection set, priced at over HK$50,000. At least there are more bottles available, with 7,328 produced instead of 3,535 for A3.
Tasting Notes
The nose is fine and polished, with citrus leaves, yuzu and sharpening quinine. The palate is extremely fresh and energetic, driving straight down the centre without any excess flesh. The finish is clean textured but pleasingly bitter, adding to the sense of citrus rind there. A sweet white toastiness resounds on the finish.
Try It With
Something pungent and luxurious, like mountains of caviar on blinis or little baked potatoes.
When To Drink
Apéritif or when you're out with friends in a club.
Perfect For
The hip hop lover with refined taste.
Tatler Tip
This bottle makes a big statement, save it for a group that won't hold that against it.
TL/DR
Linear, bright, and energetic.
Supplier
MHD
