2006 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne

“A magical Champagne in the making.”

— Galloni

Announcing, with drum roll…. one of the very best Comtes de Champagne ever produced. The backstory on this offer is almost as good as the wine itself. You must stay tuned and read below!

Released in 2017, the 2006 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne received very high critical acclaim. As Galloni put it back then, “it’s a magical Champagne in the making.” Hook, line and sinker, I personally took the advice and stocked my cellar. Over the last 7 years, I’ve had the wine on 2 occasions and will second Galloni; this is a tremendous wine that continues to develop. For all of the unrealized Godliness unfolding in this wine, it can make an impatient mortal feel like it’s developing at a glacial pace; but these things cannot be rushed. This Champagne is excellent now, period, but more forward thinking buyers, ones with masterful discipline and foresight will be so richly rewarded with the heavenly experience that awaits.

“Comtes de Champagne remains the single best value (in relative terms) in tête de cuvée Champagne.”

— Galloni 2015

Right now, there is volume at the mid palate, revealing a measured creaminess but it is the finish that electrifies. It’s so precise, linear and straight, the energy and weightlessness on the palate are what one hopes for when opening a superior bottle of Champagne. The 2006 Comtes strikes that perfect balance between freshness and richness. Yet, as I said, this one still has years ahead to deliver an increasingly more glorious experience; possibly the kind where the skies part, the angels descend, trumpets sound and suddenly, if you’re ready, you’ll have an existential understanding as to why Champagne matters.

Last week, another ho-hum day at the warehouse, I did a double take when a supplier offered a parcel of the 2006 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne at a price that resembled the original release price. My heart began to race. Surely it’s a mistake but puzzled, I grabbed the phone. Is this too good to be true?

“What gives?” I asked. “How can you offer a wine now almost 20 years old at a price from similar to what we paid in 2017?”

He told me he’d bought this wine for his retirement. No, not to celebrate, but as an investment! Apparently, he negotiated an incredible deal directly with the domaine just prior to release on a position of over 6000 bottles! Now, when he needs money to pad retirement, he sells a little!

Just when you think you've seen it all….you’ve got to marvel at the way wine moves, like the flow of water. Needless to say, I jumped on all 120 bottles and am honored to offer it at the lowest price stateside.

I’m putting another 6-pk in my cellar. If you were to do the same, I’d like to imagine you’ll think of me over the many special moments you’ll have in the next decade. Thank yous are always welcome. ;-)