Barons de Rothschild Ritz Reserve Brut Champagne (75cl, 12%)

Ritz Reserve Brut is a Champagne created by Champagne Barons de Rothschild for the Ritz, and the wine poured when the Ritz Paris reopened its doors. It blends 60% Chardonnay from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs with 40% Pinot Noir from Verzenay, Ay, Ambonnay and Mareuil-sur-Ay. Up to 40% reserve wines go into the blend, which spends four years on its lees and is finished with a low dosage of 6 g/L. The black bottle carries the Rothschild coat of arms and family motto. The nose shows mixed apples, nashi pear, almonds and jasmine with a light accent of biscotti. The palate is focused and energetic, with a fine, persistent bead, citrus-edged minerality and crisp apple, pear, quince and white peach, closing dry and clean on lightly toasted biscotti.