Taittinger Folies de la Marquetterie NV Champagne.

THE 'FOLIE' OF REASON

Just as ‘marquetterie’ (marquetry work) is a combination of different types of woods and colours, the word ‘folies’ has two meanings, the combination of which perfectly encapsulates the twin essential qualities the Château and its vineyards.

In French, a ‘folie’ can mean a very steep patch of land. It can also mean “madness” when used in another context, and indeed it could be considered “madness” to try and plant a vineyard on such a steep patch of land. The vines at ‘La Marquetterie’ cling to the hillside and were worked by the Benedictine monks for many years, and most notably by Dom Oudart, who is one of the founding fathers of champagne.

In yet another definition, a ‘folie’ can also be an 18th century term for a summer residence in the country which was understated yet elegant and with a comfortable and sophisticated interior. The aristocracy and the bourgeoisie liked to hold literary salons, and sometimes ‘fêtes galantes’ (courtship parties) here at La Marquetterie.

That same combinations of work and pleasure, reason and madness can be found in the Folies de la Marquetterie cuvee, a premier champagne from the Taittinger estate. Not only is it just made from juice from the first pressing, but it also has a subtle dominant flavour of Pinot Noir, which adds structure and richness to the wine. This is combined with Chardonnay for a touch of lightness. The blend then spends a period of time maturing in old oak barrels, which are reminiscent of the wood panelling found in the Château...

It is the perfect champagne to accompany fine cuisine.

Château de la Marquetterie, set in the heart of the Champagne wine-growing region, was, prior to the French Revolution, the one-time residence of writer Jacques Cazotte, author of French classic Le Diable Amoureux, and a site for village fairs where philosophers and intellectuals of the Enlightenment would gather. General Castelnau also used the stately home as his headquarters during the Battle of Champagne in 1915, while much earlier, in the 17th century, Brother Oudart, a Benedictine Monk, discovered some of the secrets of champagne fermentation.

“Folies de la Marquetterie” proposes a blend of 45% Chardonnay and 55% Pinot Noir, sourced exclusively from the Taittinger vineyards. The acquisition of the Château de la Marquetterie and the surrounding vineyards, a site known as “Les Folies”, marked the beginning of the family’s Champagne adventure. The vineyard grew very quickly and the House now presents more than 35 different crus. “Folies de la Marquetterie” pays tribute to this story. The signature tends to dense and profound, with opulent aromas. Each plot is vinified separately, while some crus are aged in oak barrels. Finally, five years of ageing in bottles ensures the wine’s perfect balance.

The body is deep yellow in colour with golden highlights. The bubbles are fine and delicate. The intense, highly fruity bouquet leads onto peach and apricot jam aromas with subtle hints of toasted brioche and vanilla. On the palate, this wine is full bodied, smooth and fruity with dominant peach flavours. The distinctive and expressive finish delivers lightly woody notes. Les Folies de la Marquetterie is a full-flavoured and harmonious champagne distinguished by its immense richness and complexity. This “terroir” wine, structured and powerful, pays homage to the 18th century and is the ideal accompaniment to robust dishes such as roasted meats and fish in sauce.