Jacquesson 'Cuvee 745' - Champagne

Jacquesson, a historic champagne estate from France, has a rich legacy that even predates Krug. In fact, Joseph Krug lent his expertise here before starting his own champagne brand. Since 1980, brothers Laurent and Jean - Hervé Chiquet have been running the estate, prioritizing quality over consistency. They release a new cuvee each year to craft the finest champagne, even if it varies slightly from one year to the next. The 745 cuvee is a blend of 14% Pinot Meunier, 20% Pinot Noir, and 66% Chardonnay. It features delicate bubbles and a light yellow color with golden hints. On the nose, you'll detect notes of brioche, white flowers, and citrus. This champagne is an ideal aperitif and pairs perfectly with oysters and other shellfish.

To enjoy this Jacquesson 'Cuvee 745' champagne, first, chill it in the refrigerator for about 2 - 3 hours until it reaches around 45 - 50°F (7 - 10°C). When opening, hold the bottle at a 45 - degree angle and slowly twist the cork to avoid a loud pop and excessive foam. Pour it gently into a flute glass to preserve the bubbles. As an aperitif, simply sip it on its own to appreciate its complex flavors. When having it with oysters or shellfish, take a sip of champagne before and after each bite to enhance the taste of both. Store any leftover champagne in the fridge with a champagne stopper. It's best to consume the remaining champagne within 1 - 2 days as the bubbles will start to fade over time.