Champagne Cartier Pommery Cuvee Louise 2005

Winery Background

Pommery, founded in 1836 in Reims, Champagne, is known for its focus on freshness, finesse, and elegance. The Cuvée Louise line, created in 1979, represents the pinnacle of the house’s offerings, utilizing only the best plots from the estate’s vineyards. Named after Louise Pommery, this prestige cuvée is produced only in the best vintages  .

Producer

The wine is crafted by Pommery, a historic Champagne house renowned for its exceptional quality. The 2005 vintage reflects the house’s commitment to tradition and excellence, with minimal dosage to highlight the purity of the wine .

Vineyard

Cuvée Louise 2005 comes from Grand Cru vineyards in Avize, Cramant, and Aÿ. These prime locations contribute to the wine’s richness, minerality, and complexity .

The Wine

The 2005 Cuvée Louise is a blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir, reflecting the structure and elegance of the region’s terroir. The wine was aged extensively in the cellar to develop complexity and character  .

Vintage

The 2005 vintage was a year of contrasts, with a warm growing season that contributed to fuller, riper fruit. The resulting wines from this vintage are known for their richness and ability to age well .

Vinification and Aging

This Champagne is produced using the traditional method with a minimal dosage, enhancing its purity and elegance. The wine spent several years on lees, developing a creamy texture and refined flavors .

Grapes

• 60% Chardonnay

• 40% Pinot Noir

This blend combines the finesse and elegance of Chardonnay with the structure and richness of Pinot Noir  .

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Bright golden-green hue with fine, persistent bubbles.

• Nose: Aromas of ripe pear, Mirabelle plums, tangerine zest, and hints of toasted brioche. Floral and spiced undertones add depth.

• Palate: The wine is elegant, with flavors of candied citrus, honey, and light brioche, supported by fine mousse and a long, mineral-driven finish  .

Food and Wine Pairing

Cuvée Louise 2005 pairs beautifully with:

• Lobster bisque

• Smoked salmon

• Tempura seafood

It also complements creamy or citrus-based dishes, such as lemon meringue pie  .

Service

Serve at 8-10°C (46-50°F) in a flute or white wine glass to bring out the wine’s delicate aromas and flavors .

Storage

The 2005 Cuvée Louise has the potential to age gracefully. While it is ready to drink now, it can be cellared for another 6-8 years, developing more complexity with time .

Scores

• Falstaff: 94 points

• Natalie MacLean: 95 points

• Other critics: Range from 92-98 points, reflecting its high quality and aging potential  .

This Champagne is an excellent choice for special occasions, combining elegance, complexity, and richness in one of the finest examples from the 2005 vintage.