Philipponnat Royale Reserve Non Dose

Founded 1522, Philipponnat remains one of the most prestigious Champagne houses - and one of our new favorites! Philipponnat blends Chardonnay into all its Champagnes, even though many of their vineyards are in famous Pinot Noir subzones, because of the lifting freshness and acidity that white grape provides. For complexity, they age their Champagnes in oak and through a sherry-like solera system that incorporates wines from earlier vintages. Additionally, they pioneered labeling non-vintage Champagnes with the primary vintage year and dosage levels. They produce a couple of wines called "Royale Reserve," which are exactly the same except one key difference: there's no added sugar in the "Non Dose!" That means this Champagne (a dosage zero or Brut Nature) is drier and crisper than a classic Brut, emphasizing aromatics and freshness over a richer fruit profile. The Royale Reserve Non Dose is an enticing blend of 65% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay, and 5% Pinot Meunier. Non Dose offers copious toast and brioche aromas, leading into bright, complex flavors of lemon, apple, lime, and biscuit. Racy minerality and high acidity lead into a long, fresh finish.