At a glance

Producer

Taittinger

Region

Champagne, France

Grape variety

Predominantly Pinot Noir (with some Chardonnay)

Wine type

Sparkling

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Off-Dry

Typical price

$350-$500 USD (release and current international market)

Tasting profile

Vivacious red berries (wild strawberry, raspberry), hints of citrus, delicate brioche, floral notes and fine minerality.

Evolution: With age: More pronounced toasty, brioche and dried fruit notes; savory/saline element emerges.

At peak: Aromatics richest and palate texture creamiest between 2026 and 2033; fruit and autolytic flavors in maximum harmony.

Structure

Acidity

Bright, racy, classically high Champagne acidity

Tannins

Very fine, subtle (mostly from Pinot Noir, but polished by extended lees aging)

Alcohol

Moderate (typically 12-12.5%)

Aging potential

Significant: likely to evolve and gain complexity in cellar for 15-20+ years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2033

Optimal window

2024 to 2038

Current status

Approaching optimal drinking window, though can be cellared further for additional complexity.

Current condition

Fresh, vibrant, with developing secondary complexity; still youthful but showing hallmark refinement.

Comtes de Champagne Rosé is renowned for prodigious aging; 2013 is a cooler vintage yielding firm acid spine and remarkable purity. Currently drinking beautifully, though further cellaring will intensify tertiary notes and complexity.

Food pairing

Pair with refined shellfish (lobster, langoustine), sushi/sashimi, premium charcuterie, duck breast, or truffled poultry dishes.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Taittinger has invested in biodiversity, sustainable farming, reduced pesticide use, and water/energy efficiency across its vineyards. Packaging uses recyclable glass and lighter bottles to reduce emissions.

Taittinger is a leading Champagne house with major investment in sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. They implement certified sustainable viticulture, have strong biodiversity initiatives, use integrated pest and water management, and pursue lighter, recyclable packaging. However, as a large exporter and producer of traditional-method sparkling wine, its carbon footprint (relative to local wines or those with full organic conversion) is moderate. Continuous improvements are noted, but not fully organic or biodynamic; thus, score reflects strong, but not top-tier, sustainability.