One of Toronto’s oldest non-profit wine tasting clubs offering members unique, affordable, fine wine tastings from our extensive cellar.
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Grand Marque and Grower Producer Champagne
In our World, Aged is Sexy.
Contrasting the Two Faces of Champagne
A Special Event cohosted by the Toronto Vintners Club and Winetasters of Toronto Wednesday, September 20, 2023
For most of history, champagne had a single face. If it wasn’t for household names such as Moet, Bollinger, Laurent Perrier, and a dozen or so more houses, champagne, as we know it, would not exist. The great houses, or grand marques, of this magical wine region, created a global brand of quality. Practically everyone associates champagne with times of joy and celebration. This is the face of champagne that everyone knows and loves.
Perhaps without realizing it, the grand marque houses also laid a foundation for another face of champagne to flourish. The grower-producer (or récoltant-manipulant) movement began in earnest in the 1970s. These producers typically share a common story. Their families historically grew grapes that were sold to the grand marques and a new generation decided they wanted changes; they wanted to make their own wines that exhibited their vigneron philosophy and terroir. The wine-making philosophy of Burgundy and Spain influenced their thinking and they began making and marketing their own wines. The early years were difficult but these artisan producers preserved and their efforts were rewarded. Their wines, showcasing a new style, tapped into the rich market created by the grand marques.
It took decades for champagne’s second face to thrive. While their market share is tiny, their influence is enormous. The grower-producers inspired and refreshed wine-making in the region. Grand marque houses took notice and the outcome of this attention is increased quality and diversity across the board. For wine lovers, no other time in history has produced more interesting champagnes. Choice and quality have never been greater or more exciting.
Toronto Vintners Club and Winetasters of Toronto have joined forces to provide members and their guests with an event that demonstrates the merits of these two important faces of champagne. Come experience a fun and educational evening exploring champagne styles that appeal to you.
Your evening will include a selection of hors d’oeuvres to pair with 11 exquisite champagnes.
Member price $145, including HST. Guest price $195. Our value proposal includes about 500 ML of wine at our acquisition cost of $61, food cost of $40, venue cost of $25, and servers $6. A Toronto restaurant would charge at least $260 for the wine alone.
Wine portions for this event will be controlled by tickets to ensure that everyone experiences each wine. We will endeavor to have equitable distribution of the hors d’oeuvres.
Please arrange for your safe and responsible transportation to and from the event.
The Wines
Reception
Vilmart et Cie Grande Réserve 1er Cru Champagne
Blanc de Blanc Comparison
Charels Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc Diebolt-Vallois Brut Blanc de Blancs
Pinot Noir dominant Comparison
Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut Champagne Savart Overture Champagne
Traditional blend Comparison 1
Laurent Perrier La Cuvée Brut Champagne Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve
Traditional blend Comparison 2
Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial
Marc Hebrart Mes Favorites Vieilles Vignes Brut
Rose Comparison
Pommery Rose R.H. Coutier Grand Cru Brut Rose
Tasting Notes
Vilmart et Cie Grande Réserve 1er Cru Champagne ($74)
In this bright and harmonious champagne, the fine and energetic streams of bubbles effortlessly carry flavors that range from crisp Asian pear and tangerine to slivered almonds lifted with a hint of chopped ginger and elderflower. Long and creamy finish. Disgorged October 2019. Drink now: 2025. Score – 92 (Alison Napjus, winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2021)