Can I offer you a glass of champagne?
I always love to offer a glass of bubbles when my guests arrive. I feel it helps them relax and chat while I put the final touches on a meal – or depending on the recipe, when I’m still busy in the kitchen. (Full disclosure I am an ambassador for this brand.)
Founded by Owner-Grower Stéphane Lombardi in 2007, Champagne Lombardi is a Champagne House in the heart of Aube, on the Côte des Bar. The vineyards are in the southernmost part of Champagne, not too far from Burgundy. They released their first Cuvée in 2011.
Which one should I start with?
All of Stephane’s champagnes are “cuvées” because they are made only of first-press juices. I have 3 of his award winning Champagnes: the Anthèse, Hyménée and Blanc de Noir.
The Anthèse is a Rosé champagne, 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay with 24 months aging on the lees.
The Hyménée is named after the Greek god of marriage, since it’s a “perfect union” of 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay.
The Blanc de Noir, translates to “a white from red” which refers to the use of 100% Pinot Noir grapes.
RIght now, I’m leaning towards the Anthèse, since I haven’t had a Rosé Champagne in a few months. The accompanying tasting notes for this champagne are: ripe raspberries, peaches and candied lemon with pleasant acidity and fine and light bubbles.
I love is that Stéphane also gives his personal food pairing recommendations for each of his wines. He recommends pairing the Anthese with grilled fish or even Indian dishes with garam-masala (but not too spicy!)
If you want to try Champagne Lombardi for yourself, you can order directly from his website and you can save 10% on the Award Winners case of Champagne (2 sets of 6 bottles, 12 total) with code CHRISTY.
