One of the world’s most prestigious wine merchants with nearly 270 years’ experience, what the team behind Justerini & Brooks don’t know about wine really isn’t worth knowing. Offering guests the chance to expand their knowledge on fine sparkling wines, Justerini & Brooks hosted an exclusive “Celebration of Champagne” evening in the heart of London, featuring a selection of famous bubbles brands alongside fashionable Grower champagnes.
Taking place in the elegant Hotel Café Royal – which was also the venue for Sphere’s 10th birthday party earlier this year – the event saw a mix of both press and Café Royal members enjoy a relaxed occasion with an array of sparkling tipples and insightful commentary from Justerini & Brook’s in-house expert.
The tasting began with a glass of deliciously dry Justerini & Brooks 250th Anniversary Cuvée, made entirely with Pinot Noir grapes, before a crisp Ruinart Blanc de Blanc was served with notes of lemon and chalk. With its light, fresh taste, the Diebolt Vallois Cuvée Prestige Grand Cru proved popular among attendees, while the Bollinger La Grand Année 2007 vintage added a sophisticated touch with hints of red fruit and salt. Champagne number five was a wonderfully complex Philipponnat Cuvée 1522 – another 2007 vintage – followed by the Egly Ouriet Les Crayeres Grand Cru, infused with peach, grapefruit and subtle spices. Trays of canapés then started making the rounds, along with the last wine of the evening, a young 2009 Dom Pérignon, which went down very well with notes of creamy citrus fruit.
