At a glance

Producer

Taittinger

Region

Champagne, France

Grape variety

100% Chardonnay (Blanc de Blancs)

Wine type

Sparkling

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Off-Dry

Typical price

$200–$350 USD per bottle (2024 retail values)

Tasting profile

Lively citrus (lemon zest, green apple), white florals, crisp minerality, toasted brioche and hazelnut undertones; fine mousse and palate tension.

Evolution: With age: deeper brioche, almond, honey, baked apple, increased complexity and creaminess.

At peak: Superb balance of freshness and tertiary complexity; fine persistent mousse and smooth, integrated texture.

Structure

Acidity

High

Tannins

N/A (Champagne; tannins are minimal due to white variety and method)

Alcohol

Low to moderate (typically ~12%)

Aging potential

Outstanding; can develop over 20+ years in optimal cellaring conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2038

Optimal window

2024 to 2040

Current status

Can be enjoyed now, but may benefit from further aging.

Current condition

Youthful, with bright acidity and primary fruit; developing complexity, but has years of potential ahead.

The 2013 vintage is considered classic for Champagne, especially for Chardonnay. This wine is structured for long aging, balancing vibrant acidity with depth and tension. The peak is expected after 10–15 years but may hold gracefully for much longer due to pristine winemaking and vintage quality.

Food pairing

Ideal with seafood (oysters, lobster, scallops), sushi, caviar, aged cheeses, and light poultry dishes.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Taittinger has implemented reduced chemical usage, soil management for biodiversity, cover cropping in vineyards, and limited use of herbicides. Energy efficiency measures in winery and updated packaging with some recyclable content. Water conservation ongoing but not leading sector-wide efforts.

Taittinger is a prominent house supporting Champagne region sustainability initiatives (e.g., 'Viticulture Durable en Champagne'), but does not hold major organic or biodynamic certifications. Their practices have reduced environmental impact over the last decade, but vintage 2013 bottles predate some of their more recent eco-upgrades. The carbon footprint is significant due to the heavy glass bottles and global distribution. Efforts continue, but for the 2013, overall sustainability is respectable but not top-tier.