For one who is known to be overly verbose at times, this one almost leaves me at a loss for words. Last night, I prepared Maryland style Lump Crab Cakes (broiler version, with a nod to the waistline) Basmati Rice, and Petite Pois mixed with sauteed miniature Portabellos and finished off with some good brandy.
The intent was to audition the Chandon Classic Brut that I purchased on my last trip to Costco, to see if that should be the beverage of choice for our traditional welcoming midnight supper on Jan. 1, 2008. The selection of sparklers at Costco was more limited than in years past. I would attribute that unfortunate fact to the systematic destruction of our currency by our brilliant pundits in Washington.
This wine had good pinpoint carbonation, light but pleasant color, and did complement the evening's food well. Yet something, something intangible was missing, and I am unable to put my finger on it. Did I miss the faint aroma of Passion Fruit, citrus or flowers that I have encountered in other Champagnes and their foreign derivatives? Could it have used more than a hint of Yeast to become intriguing? Or was I just waiting for a lingering aftertaste that never materialized?
Was this a bad wine? Not by a long shot. Was this a great wine? One would have to have a vivid imagination to so describe it. Would I drink this again if it were offered to me? Without question. But, would I purchase it again? The answer has to be an unqualified no.
Godzilla