"Once Upon a Time" - Ratafia de Champagne Liqueur - Jacques Selosse

The domain

The Domaine was founded in 1949 in Avize by Jacques Selosse. Taken over in 1974 by his son Anselme then 20 years old, he produces in an artisanal way and in the respect of the vines of the champagne High quality. Each year, 57,000 bottles come out of the property. The quantities produced are therefore reduced, which makes these cuvées rare and highly coveted. Covering an area of ​​7.5 hectares, the estate has 47 plots located mainly in the White Coast. And since it has been run by Anselme, a few changes have taken place, particularly in terms of yields and the method of viticulture. Indeed, an ecologist at heart, he decided to favor low yields. He adopted the organic viticulture but without seeking any certification. This allows it to distinguish itself from other Houses and to offer exceptional wines.

The champagne ratafia is an IGP, coming from grapes that can claim AOC Champagne. The manufacturing process involves adding champagne eau de vie to grape juice taken from the champagne press. The mixture gives a blocked alcoholic fermentation but also a preserved sugar. The advantage of this alcohol is to be able to preserve all the aromas of the grape juice, as close as possible to its first origin. Champagne ratafias, long considered wines used as an aperitif by winegrowers, now follow strict production rules and can be made into top-of-the-range cuvées, which sometimes make excellent drinks which, always be drunk as an aperitif, will however benefit from being associated with dishes or even desserts. Aromas of apple, pear, lemon and cut grass can be dominant. Allowed to breathe, aromas of yellow or white fruits may appear, bringing additional complexity to this alcohol.