Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2013 is a chiseled pillar of the prestige cuvée category, representing the Chardonnay-only flagship of the Taittinger family. Named after the medieval Counts of Champagne, this 100% Chardonnay expression honors the heritage of Thibault IV, who is credited with introducing the variety to the region. It remains a structural reference point for Côte des Blancs terroir, defined by its extreme aging window and Grand Cru sourcing.
The Technical Distinction
The 2013 vintage is characterized by the structural elegance of a late harvest, refined through Taittinger’s rigorous cellar program.
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Grand Cru Sourcing: Composed exclusively from the Côte des Blancs villages of Avize, Chouilly, Cramant, Mesnil-sur-Oger, and Oger.
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Decadal Lees Aging: Matured for 9–10 years in underground chalk cellars prior to disgorgement.
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Oak Architecture: Approximately 5% of the blend undergoes fermentation in older Burgundy oak barrels to provide textural depth.
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Purity of Variety: A 100% Chardonnay (Blanc de Blancs) expression chiseled for maximum aromatic complexity and minerality.
Sensory Profile
Nose: Citrus zest, white flower, and chalk mineral. Developing layers of toasted brioche, hazelnut, pastry, and honey emerge alongside soft baking spice.
Palate: Full-bodied textural refinement. A front of citrus and white fruit transitions into a mid-palate of hazelnut cream, refined acidity, and developed pastry.
Finish: Sublimely long. A signature closing of lingering chalk mineral and developed brioche characteristic of Côte des Blancs Chardonnay.
Strategic Positioning
Comtes de Champagne serves as one of the founding prestige cuvées, sitting alongside Dom Pérignon, Cristal, and Salon. It distinguishes itself by delivering comparable structural complexity at a typically more accessible investment tier than its direct peers.
"A structural masterpiece that defines the absolute peak of the Côte des Blancs Grand Cru legacy."
Technical Specifications
| Producer |
Champagne Taittinger (Reims, France) |
| Style |
Prestige Cuvée Blanc de Blancs |
| Composition |
100% Grand Cru Chardonnay |
| Vintage |
2013 |
| Maturation |
9–10 Years on Lees |
| Alcohol |
~12.5% |
| Drinking Window |
2024 – 2045+ |
Collector Note
The Comtes de Champagne 2013 is a high-conviction target for vertical collectors, arriving with a consistent critical reception in the 96–98 point range. Bottles offered here are stored at proper cellar temperatures with intact original packaging. Provenance is strictly authenticated to ensure investment-grade reliability for any world-class cellar.
Recommended Serving
To honor the profound decadal integration and allow the "Chalk Mineral" character to bloom, serve at 47–50°F in a Burgundy glass or wide Champagne tulip. Pairs peerlessly with caviar, oysters, lobster, sushi, or white truffle preparations. Its structural complexity rewards slow consumption and extended cellaring.
