Taittinger Collection Rauschenberg 2000 in Giftbox

Claude Taittinger was a great patron of the arts, and, as such, he began in the early 1980s to commission artwork for the bottles of some of his most exquisite wines. The highly collectible bottle was designed by Corneille, a Dutch artist known for lyrical, colorful paintings that evoke a sense of whimsy through his depictions of birds, women, and cats. According to the importers web site: “The Taittinger Collection Series bottles are released only in great vintages, from a selection of the year’s finest cuvées. The wines are made from Chardonnay mainly from the Grands Crus of the Côte des Blancs, and Pinot Noir from Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne vineyards.”

From the 2000 vintage this ‘Collection’ was designed by American artist Robert Rauschenberg. The delicate, fruity nose releases subtle aromas of peach and sweetened grapefruit, with the scent of white flowers and tea leaves. On the palate, this wine is lively and smooth, with dominant fruit flavours of citrus and quince. The complex finish is long, mellow and silky. This wine is an exceptionally fine Champagne with superbly harmonious aromatic expression, which will continue to develop in intensity and complexity. An ideal aperitif, this wine is a delicious accompaniment to fine chicken or white meat dishes in light creamy sauces.

The Taittinger Collection Series bottles are released only in great vintages from a selection of the year’s finest cuvées.