February - for those with a sense of occasion it means Waitangi Day and the forging of a nation, but for those romantically inclined it means St. Valentine’s Day.
Who was this mysterious Saint and what is the history behind the celebration? According to one legend Claudius II in the 3rd Century outlawed young men from marrying (his source of potential soldiers) but Valentine, a priest, defied Claudius and continued to marry young lovers. Claudius had him executed but Valentine was declared a martyr and sainted by the Pope.
Sending red roses on Valentine's Day as a declaration of undying devotion is a very sweet thought. But considering the pecuniary cynical world we live in, the reaction might well be (with apologies to Elizabeth Barrett Browning), “How do you love me? Let me count the roses.” Not to mention the inevitable courier delays that’ll leave your flowers wilting in the back of the van before they get to you.
Maybe it’s best to send Champagne, that way you can share in the pleasure and maybe even pop the question. At Glengarry you’ll find a host of choices of Champagne; my top three wines would have to be Delamotte Blanc de Blanc Non Vintage, Pol Roger Brut Non Vintage, Drappier Carte D’Or Non Vintage, and if money was of no matter then Salon for sure.
In a world where the majority of companies place profit ahead of quality it is refreshing to discover that integrity has not totally disappeared. Champagne Delamotte (established in 1760) together with its extraordinary sister company Salon (they only make a very very rare Blanc de Blanc) are two of the few still dedicated to the pursuit of perfection. This N.V., surely one of the best kept secrets of Champagne, is a remarkably consistent bubbly. The Chardonnay content is principally from 100% Grand Cru vineyards, the Pinots, Noir and Meunier from selected vineyards. It is a perfect expression of vivacity with a persistent stream of bubbles, doughy, berry fruit, mineral aromas, and wonderfully fresh flavours.
Like its much celebrated competitor Moet, Delamotte has a light touch and an impressive depth of flavour.
Pol Roger is one of the great names of Champagne. The “Réserve” is an exquisite wine with a rich fruity fragrant bouquet and a delicate creamy mousse. It combines great fruit depth flavours within an elegant structure. Nicely weighted, it finishes on a fine citrus note.
Drappier Carte D’Or is blended exclusively from first pressings-this is elegantly structured champagne. Drappier is considered the finest boutique producer in the Côtes des Bar region of the Aube district and are exponents of organic and traditional practices. The Drappiers employ minimal amounts of sulphur and a low dosage approach that bestows a dry and aromatic elegance upon their expressions.
Happy Valentine's Day.
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Published 4 February 2022