From: Champagne, France
Varietal: Chardonnay
It is difficult to say how long there have been vines in the village of Arrentières in the Côte des Bar, but certainly, they were being grown in the 13th century. In the mid-twelfth century, a Templar base was established in Arenthieres. In 1312, under pressure from King Philip IV, Pope Clement V dissolved the Order of the Knights Templar and inventoried their properties. The Templars owned vines in Arrentières, which “produce 35 muids in a good year” (a muid is a large barrel). Since that time wine has always been produced…subject of course to the conflicts and turmoil that inevitably occur in the course of history!
Passionate about the history of Arrentières, the Chaput brothers Nicolas and Xavier, along with their father Denis and mother Jacquline, have preserved the Templar legacy by renovating the last vestiges of a Templar commandery established there between the 12th and 14th centuries. To experience their Champagnes in their tasting cellar and tower is truly to walk through history.
Tasting Notes: The name means “the promise of dawn,” and “Aube” as all the Chardonnay parcels face East toward the sunny morning – and the name of the county. Historically Pinot Noir is the variety of the Côte des Bar. But “Promise” is to show how a pure Chardonnay expression can delight. Pale golden yellow color with green-yellow glints. Satin appearance, fine bubbles with a persistent cordon. Aromas of hawthorn flowers, lemon cream, brioche, grey pepper, creamy limestone, and candied lemon zest. On the palate, the attack is supple and fresh, with a soft, creamy effervescence. Luscious, crisp fruit is underscored by a fresh, delicate, lemony acidity, with a limestone minerality that lengthens the palate. Overall, this is balanced, concentrated champagne, with a light, lemony finish, and lovely, vibrant acidity.
Pairing: Pair with pan-fried scallops with a limoncello reduction and saffron foam; sliced boiled ham with lemon-thyme vegetable broth.
