André Heucq’s 2018 Ratafia Champenois is made from certified organic Meunier grown on 35-year-old vines in the illite clay soils around Cuisles in the Vallée de la Marne. Fortified wi...
André Heucq’s 2018 Ratafia Champenois is made from certified organic Meunier grown on 35-year-old vines in the illite clay soils around Cuisles in the Vallée de la Marne. Fortified with house-made spirit, it spends one year in qvevri and another in oak, without added sulfites. Deep rose gold with copper highlights, it opens with quince jelly, brandied cherries and vanilla, followed by hazelnut and sandalwood. The palate is creamy and warming, with notes of pears poached in wine and a long, fresh, gently tart finish. Serve at 14–16°C with aged Gouda, Mimolette or a fruit clafoutis.
