It’s no secret that I’ve largely stepped away from the hustle and bustle of massive wine tastings. The volume of wines can often overshadow the story and its nuances what makes wine so captivating. I prefer to enjoy wine directly with winemakers, at small crafted experiences or at home. However, this past Saturday, June 7th, marked a delightful departure from my usual modus operandi. The Decanter Fine Wine Encounter New York promised a different experience. It offered an opportunity to delve into unique wines from world-class producers. The event took place from a breathtaking vantage point 60 floors above the iconic Manhattan skyline. And let me tell you, it delivered on every promise.
(This statement is a testament to the bold profile and artistry of Pinot Noir. Pinot Noir forms the backbone of their exquisite Champagne).
The highlight of my day began with an exclusive masterclass dedicated to the illustrious Veuve Clicquot. We participated in a guided tasting. Natalie Earl, Decanter France Editor, led the discussion. Gaelle Goossens, Senior Winemaker, unveiled the philosophy behind their art of wine making. They created a dynamic and informative exchange.
We delved into the recently released La Grande Dame 2018. I was looking forward to this moment since I have been monitoring the latest vintages pretty closely. This vintage is a 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay with fresh structure and elegant bubbles. This is a very precise vintage offering a dark fruits on the palate with character and minerality. A great acquisition for any Champagne lover of this iconic house.
The magic continue to unfold as we tasted iconic older vintages. We sampled the magnificent Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 1996. The 1996, in particular, displayed an incredible freshness and vibrant acidity, woven with notes of brioche and toasted nuts, a true testament to its longevity.
Observing the subtle differences between the same vintage bottled in a jeroboam versus a magnum was utterly fascinating. Each bottle showcased its own unique characteristics. The larger formats tend to evolve more slowly. This evolution is more graceful, leading to a complexity. The depth achieved can be truly profound. The 1990, especially from the jeroboam, showcased a deeper character. It was more evolved, with hints of dried fruit. There was an almost savory complexity.
Following the profound experience with Veuve Clicquot, I ventured into the Grand Tasting, eager to discover more vinous treasures. This is where the breadth of world-class wines truly stood out. It reinforced the “why” behind my attendance at such a well-curated event.
My palate was curiously drawn to Champagne Laurent-Perrier. Their house style offered a contrast to Veuve Clicquot. I was particularly impressed by their Laurent-Perrier Blanc de Blancs. It presented a completely different profile. Yet, it was equally distinctive. It was uniquely refreshing. Its bright citrus notes and crisp minerality were a delightful awakening. Their Laurent-Perrier Brut Rosé also stood out. It had an elegant salmon hue and delicate red berry aromas. These features were achieved through a meticulous cold maceration process that truly captures the essence of Pinot Noir.
Beyond Champagne, I explored some intriguing still wines. The Garrus Rosé 2019 from Château d’Esclans was a true revelation. This iconic Provençal rosé, known for its pale color and incredible complexity, did not disappoint. It offered a sophisticated bouquet of red berries, peach, and a hint of spice, with a remarkable texture and a long, lingering finish. It’s a rosé that transcends expectations, proving that these wines can possess serious depth and age-worthiness.
I also had the pleasure of tasting from Viña Leyda, a Chilean producer renowned for their cool-climate wines. Their Sauvignon Blanc, in particular, was vibrant and expressive, bursting with tropical fruit notes and a zesty acidity.
From the classic heart of Bordeaux, a sample from Chateau St. Pierre from St. Julien offered a glimpse into the region’s esteemed terroir. Chateau St. Pierre exhibited the characteristic elegance and structure of a Left Bank Bordeaux, with notes of blackcurrant, cedar, and a firm tannic backbone – a true representation of the region’s classic style.
The Decanter Fine Wine Encounter truly redefined my perception of wine events. The “why” behind attending such a focused gathering became abundantly clear throughout the day. Moreover, the absence of overwhelming crowds allowed for genuine conversations and a more contemplative approach to tasting. This format prioritizes quality over quantity. It allowed me to truly absorb the nuances of each wine. I listened to the stories they had to tell. From the enlightening Veuve Clicquot masterclass came knowledge. The diverse and compelling wines discovered during the Grand Tasting were impressive. Every moment was a testament to the power of a well-curated experience. It’s safe to say that I’ll be looking forward to the next Decanter Fine Wine Encounter with eager anticipation.
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