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Palme d'Or Nicolas Feuillate 2006

Based on the cooperative model and founded in 1972 by Nicolas Feuillatte, this eponymous producer is now a brand in its own right and distributed widely around the world. Based in Chouilly, at the foot of the Côte des Blancs, the group represents 4500 winegrowers and vinifies the produce from 2200 hectares spread throughout the Champagne region. Central to the range are two flagship cuvées, the non vintage Brut and the Palmes d’Or prestige cuvée. In between these two extremes, the brand also produces many other cuvées with differing styles and characters. The most interesting of these include the cuvée 225, which is vinified in wood, and the grand cru cuvées, especially Le Mesnil.

A blend of 40% Chardonnay (Montgueux and the three grand crus from Chouilly, Cramant and Le Mesnil sur Oger) and 60% Pinot Noir (grand crus only), this exceptional cuvée from Palmes d'Or has aged for 8 years in the cellar. This champagne, with its pale gold colour and extremely fine bubbles, offers a very rich, intense nose featuring white flowers, morello cherries and patisserie. The palate is round, buttery and very long. The fullness of this great wine owes a lot to the Pinot Noir grapes, emboldened by the elegance of the Chardonnays.