2016 Taittinger Brut Millesime Magnum 1.5L, Champagne

Outstanding elegance and finesse pervade this exceptional wine with its well-honed toasty sourdough, gunflint and grilled citrus notes, razor sharp acidity and mouth-filling mousse. Brilliantly poised and brimming with potential, the long and zesty finish runs and runs.

97 points decanter.com

2016 Taittinger Brut Millésimé Magnum is Champagne in its most poised and celebratory form, made for moments that deserve a little ceremony. Taittinger has long been the great champion of Chardonnay in Champagne, and this vintage cuvée leans heavily into that house signature. The fruit comes predominantly from grand cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims, where chalk soils and cool exposure deliver finesse, precision and age worthy structure.

The Taittinger story stretches back to 1734, but its modern identity was shaped by the Taittinger family after the Second World War, with a clear commitment to elegance over power. That philosophy continues today, with meticulous vineyard selection, long ageing on lees and a refusal to rush wines to market. The 2016 vintage was challenging but ultimately rewarding, producing wines of purity, tension and impressive longevity when handled with care.

In the glass, this is beautifully expressive yet composed. Citrus zest, white peach and crisp apple lead the way, followed by subtle brioche, almond and a gentle chalky savouriness. The mousse is fine and persistent, giving the wine a creamy flow without ever feeling heavy. There is a wonderful sense of calm confidence here, everything in balance, nothing overstated.

The magnum format takes it to another level. Ageing more slowly and evenly, it amplifies freshness while building complexity, making it ideal for both immediate celebration and longer cellaring. At the table, this is a superb partner for oysters, sashimi, roast chicken or delicate seafood dishes. It will drink beautifully now but has the structure to evolve gracefully for fifteen years or more, gaining toasted, nutty depth while retaining its core of brightness.