The Chartogne-Taillet Hors Série 2019 (Disgorged June 2024) is a beautifully singular and deeply terroir-driven Champagne from one of the Montagne de Reims’ most innovative grower producers. Created as a small-production experimental cuvée by Alexandre Chartogne, the wine reflects a highly individual approach to vineyard expression and élevage, drawing on old-vine fruit and meticulous low-intervention winemaking. The nose reveals preserved lemon, baked apple and ripe orchard fruit layered alongside toasted brioche, almond skin and smoky chalk minerality, giving the wine remarkable complexity and depth.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with exceptionally fine mousse, vibrant natural acidity and a concentrated mineral core. Layers of citrus peel, orchard fruit and savoury lees complexity are balanced by saline freshness and subtle oxidative nuance, finishing long, dry and beautifully persistent with outstanding structure and finesse. The warm but balanced 2019 vintage contributes additional texture and richness while preserving freshness and precision through the wine’s chalky backbone.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The Chartogne-Taillet Hors Série 2019 is a superb artisanal grower Champagne — layered, mineral and incredibly distinctive with remarkable depth and ageing potential. Perfect with lobster, roast poultry, scallops, mushroom dishes or aged hard cheeses. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar gracefully through 2045+.
