Deutz Cuvée William Deutz Brut Millésime 2009

What

One of the original grand marques, founded in 1838, with a new spring in its step since the mid-90s when it was bought by the Rouzaud family of Louis Roederer

Where

Aÿ, Vallée de la Marne; 45ha Grand and Premier Cru vineyards mainly in the Marne Valley supply about 1/5 of their grape needs.

Why

Although the Blanc de Blancs Amour de Deutz gets a lot of the attention, the original Prestige Cuvée William Deutz is arguably a stronger reflection of the house style with pinot driven depth and the characteristic Deutz elegance.

What else

Production has mushroomed from ~600,000 bottles in the mid-90s to around 2.5 million now without sacrificing quality. The investment from the Rouzaud family has improved winemaking and cellaring facilities and has pushed Deutz to experiment with sustainable agriculture.

Tasting Notes

The nose offers smokiness, white pepper, lightly browned toast, golden apricots, and yellow plums. The mid-palate is rich and mouth-filling; zingy acidity gives way to bitterness about midway through. The textural elements are somewhat understated; more jellied than grippy.

Try It With 

Nutty, earthy noodle dishes.

When To Drink

Apéritif

Perfect For

Your mentor.

Tatler Tip

Not to be confused with the new Hommage à William Deutz Parcelle d'Aÿ cuvées; this is the house's OG prestige cuvée.

TL/DR

Golden, elegant prestige cuvée.

Supplier

China Wines & Spirits.