Castelnau Reserve Brut
Castelnau Brut Réserve is a complex and mature non-vintage Champagne from Reims, known for its extended ageing on lees (spent yeast cells), which imparts characteristic notes of brioche, toast, and nuts alongside fresh fruit flavours. It offers remarkable depth and quality for its price point.
Champagne de Castelnau's Brut Réserve NV is the flagship cuvée of the house, representing their signature style. Crafted primarily from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with a smaller portion of Pinot Meunier, the blend benefits significantly from an exceptionally long period of maturation on its lees in the cellars – typically around 5-6 years, far exceeding the legal minimum of 15 months for non-vintage Champagne. This extended ageing develops considerable complexity, texture, and aromatic depth. Expect a sophisticated profile balancing fresh citrus and orchard fruit notes with richer, more developed flavours of brioche, toasted almonds, baked bread, and subtle hints of honey. The palate is creamy yet vibrant, supported by fine bubbles and a lingering finish. It's a versatile Champagne, acting as an excellent apéritif but also possessing the structure to pair well with a variety of dishes.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Pale gold with fine, persistent bubbles.
Nose: Complex and inviting, showcasing aromas of toasted brioche, almonds, baked apples, lemon zest, and sometimes hints of white flowers or honey due to the extended lees ageing.
Palate: Rich and creamy texture, yet balanced by bright acidity. Flavours echo the nose with prominent biscuity notes, green apple, citrus peel, and a nutty complexity. Well-integrated mousse (bubbles).
Recognition
Gold medals and high scores (e.g., 90+ points) from Decanter World Wine Awards, International Wine Challenge (IWC), Mundus Vini.
Food Pairings
Apéritif: Excellent on its own or with canapés like smoked salmon blinis, cheese gougères, or mini quiches.
Seafood: Oysters, scallops, grilled prawns, fish and chips, baked cod.
White Meats: Roast chicken, pork tenderloin, veal escalope.
Cheese: Hard cheeses like Comté, Gruyère, or aged Cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
Temperature: Serve well chilled, ideally between 8−10 ∘ C (46−50 ∘ F).
Glassware: Use a tulip-shaped Champagne flute or a standard white wine glass to allow the aromas to develop. Avoid the narrow 'flute' or wide 'coupe'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Interesting Facts
Lees Ageing: Its defining feature is the exceptionally long ageing on lees (minimum 5 years), contributing significantly to its complex flavour profile.
Cooperative Power: Champagne de Castelnau is linked to the Coopérative Régionale des Vins de Champagne (CRVC), which represents hundreds of growers and vast vineyard holdings, ensuring access to high-quality grapes from across the region.
Tour de France: Champagne de Castelnau has been an official Champagne partner for the Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO), including prestigious events like the Tour de France, often seen on the podium.