Discover Jacquesson 745: A Champagne of Excellence

Enter the realm of refined bubbles with Jacquesson 745, a limited-edition champagne that epitomizes exquisite complexity. This exceptional release is a testament to Champagne Jacquesson’s mastery, a house with over two centuries of winemaking expertise.

Jacquesson 745 is a masterpiece of blending, with 53% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, and 17% Pinot Meunier. This harmonious blend results in a champagne of unparalleled balance and depth, capturing the essence of its terroir.

Aged for four years on fine lees and finished with a mere 0.75 grams per liter dosage as a Brut Nature, Jacquesson 745 offers a pure expression of its vintage. The 2017 harvest forms the foundation of this remarkable cuvée, promising a unique tasting experience for champagne enthusiasts.

Key Takeaways

• Jacquesson 745 is a limited-edition champagne based on the 2017 vintage
• The blend consists of 53% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, and 17% Pinot Meunier
• Aged for four years on fine lees with a 0.75 g/L dosage as Brut Nature
• Offers exquisite complexity and refined bubbles
• Showcases Champagne Jacquesson’s two centuries of winemaking expertise
• Recommended drinking window from 2023 to 2033
• Received ratings ranging from 92 to 94 points from wine experts

The Legacy of Champagne Jacquesson

Since its inception in 1798, Champagne Jacquesson has carved a niche as one of the oldest, independent Champagne houses. Spanning over two centuries, this revered estate has been dedicated to producing exceptional wines within the Champagne region’s heart.

A Historic Journey Since 1798

Memmie Jacquesson founded the estate in Dizy, quickly earning acclaim for its superior wines. The Jacquesson name became a beacon of excellence, laying the groundwork for a legacy that would endure through generations.

The Chiquet Family’s Vision

In 1974, the Chiquet family’s acquisition of Champagne Jacquesson marked a significant turning point. Jean-Hervé and Laurent Chiquet introduced a new era, aiming to revive the estate’s former splendor. Their approach emphasized quality over quantity, embodying an artisanal ethos.

Revolutionary Winemaking Philosophy

The Chiquet family’s dedication to excellence catalyzed a transformative shift in Jacquesson’s winemaking philosophy. They scaled back production to focus on crafting wines that showcase their terroir’s essence. This approach includes:

• Adopting organic farming methods to promote vineyard biodiversity
• Fermenting wines in oak barrels for added complexity
• Extended aging on lees to enhance richness and depth
• Creating unique cuvées that reflect specific vineyard characteristics

Today, Champagne Jacquesson epitomizes the synergy of tradition and innovation. Its unwavering commitment to quality and terroir expression has garnered international acclaim, cementing its status among the elite Champagne producers.

Understanding Jacquesson 745: A Distinctive Release

Jacquesson 745 emerges as a quintessential terroir-driven champagne, encapsulating the essence of its origins. This unique release exemplifies the winery’s dedication to showcasing the distinct traits of each vintage and terroir.

The 2017 Vintage Foundation

The 2017 vintage was marked by adversity, with devastating frosts in April and subsequent warm, rainy conditions. Despite these challenges, Jacquesson managed to create an outstanding blend. This blend underscores the vineyards’ remarkable resilience.

Unique Blend Composition

The Jacquesson blend for Cuvée 745 is a result of meticulous composition:

Terroir Expression

The 2017 vintage Jacquesson blend features grapes from premier terroirs. 66% of the harvest comes from Aÿ, Dizy, and Hautvillers, while 34% originates from Avize and Oiry. This diverse selection of vineyards enriches the champagne’s complex profile.

With a minimal dosage of 0.75 g/L, Jacquesson 745 allows the true essence of the 2017 vintage to emerge. This approach has garnered significant acclaim, including 93 points from James Suckling and 17 points from Jancis Robinson.

Expert Reviews and Ratings

Jacquesson 745 has received widespread acclaim from wine critics, earning high scores across various platforms. Its exceptional quality is evident in its Jacquesson 745 ratings, placing it among the elite in its category.

Leading wine experts have lavished praise on Jacquesson 745, highlighting its outstanding characteristics. Sarah Mayo of The Wine Independent awarded it a 94-point rating, commending its complexity and finesse. James Suckling and La Revue du Vin de France also bestowed 93 points, acknowledging its exceptional balance and depth.

Wine Spectator’s 92-point rating underscored the champagne’s firm, focused character. Their tasting notes highlighted a delightful array of fruit and spice flavors, complemented by bright acidity. This complex flavor profile has been a recurring theme in expert reviews, solidifying Jacquesson 745’s reputation as a standout vintage.

These prestigious ratings affirm Jacquesson 745’s status as a champagne of remarkable quality. It appeals to both connoisseurs and enthusiasts, making it a highly sought-after vintage.

Tasting Profile and Characteristics

The Jacquesson 745 tasting notes unveil a champagne of unparalleled quality and complexity. This masterpiece showcases the pinnacle of Champagne’s terroir, presenting a distinct flavor profile that distinguishes it from other sparkling wines.

Aroma Complex

The Jacquesson 745 presents an alluring bouquet to the nose. Dominated by red apples and quince paste, it is complemented by subtle cranberries and goldenrod honey. This intricate aroma complex foretells the champagne’s profound depth and sophistication.

Palate Expression

On the palate, Jacquesson 745 offers a symphony of flavors. Sweet orchard fruits blend with zesty lemon and delicate honey notes. The champagne’s characteristics include:

• Poached pear and baked apple
• Grapefruit and lemon rind
• Pistachio and subtle stone fruit

Fine bubbles and crisp acidity contribute to a vibrant, fresh mouthfeel, elevating the overall tasting experience.

Finish and Length

The Jacquesson 745 concludes with a long, delicate finish. A mineral underpinning emerges, featuring chalk and brine notes that linger on the palate. This champagne’s persistent finish exemplifies its exceptional quality and aging potential.

The Art of Production

Jacquesson winemaking exemplifies the pinnacle of artisanal craftsmanship and environmental stewardship. The estate’s dedication to quality is evident in every phase of production, from the meticulous selection of vineyards to the aging process.

Vineyard Selection

Founded in 1798, Champagne Jacquesson has embraced organic viticulture practices. The estate meticulously chooses vineyards that best represent the terroir. This strategy enables the creation of outstanding vintage cuvées and the renowned 700 Series, which embodies the essence of each harvest.

Fermentation Process

Oak barrel fermentation is a cornerstone of Jacquesson’s winemaking philosophy. This method gently introduces micro-oxygenation, enhancing the champagne’s aromas and texture. The blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes undergoes this precise process, establishing the wine’s complexity.

Aging and Dosage

Jacquesson champagnes are aged on lees for typically four years, which develops distinctive aromas such as toasted bread and dried fruits. The final step involves a minimal dosage, often around 0.75 g/L, categorizing the champagne as Extra Brut. This approach allows the true essence of the terroir and vintage to emerge.

Terroir and Vineyard Sources

Jacquesson vineyards are situated at the heart of Champagne’s terroir. The estate owns and cultivates 69 to 76 acres in renowned Grand Cru villages like Aÿ, Avize, and Oiry. They also manage vineyards in Premier Cru areas such as Hautvillers, Dizy, and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.

The Jacquesson 745 Champagne’s character is shaped by a diverse terroir. A blend of 55% grapes from Aÿ, Dizy, and Hautvillers, and 45% from Avize and Oiry, contributes to its complexity and distinct profile.

Jacquesson’s dedication to quality is evident in their production methods. They yield about 7,000 bottles per hectare, a figure significantly lower than the Champagne norm of 10,000. This focus on lower yields increases the concentration and quality of their wines.

The winery’s commitment to terroir expression is underscored by their sustainable farming practices. One-third of Jacquesson’s vineyards are certified organic, with minimal herbicide and fungicide use. This approach allows the unique characteristics of each vineyard site to be fully expressed in the final product.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Jacquesson 745 food pairings unveil a realm of culinary exploration. Its unmatched versatility positions it as an ideal accompaniment for a variety of dishes. From the subtlety of seafood to the opulence of main courses and the sophistication of gourmet appetizers, it excels in every aspect.

Seafood Companions

The Jacquesson 745 excels in conjunction with champagne and seafood. Its sharp acidity and delicate effervescence enhance the flavor of oysters. For a more indulgent experience, it pairs magnificently with scallop carpaccio or steamed hairy crabs. The champagne’s effervescence counterbalances the richness of these delicacies, achieving a symphony of flavors.

Main Course Pairings

When it comes to main courses, Jacquesson 745 complements white meats and fish in sauce impeccably. Its intricate profile stands strong against richer dishes, never overpowering them. It pairs exceptionally well with a roasted chicken in a creamy mushroom sauce or a delicate sole meunière. The champagne’s acidity refreshes the palate between bites, elevating the dining experience.

Appetizer Suggestions

Gourmet appetizers find their ideal match in Jacquesson 745. Its adaptability is evident in a variety of starters. It pairs exquisitely with a classic foie gras for a sumptuous start to your meal. For vegetarians, mushroom-based appetizers such as truffle-infused risotto balls are a delightful choice. The champagne’s refined flavors beautifully complement these rich, earthy dishes.

Whether you’re hosting a seafood extravaganza, a refined dinner party, or an evening of refined appetizers, Jacquesson 745 is a versatile and refined choice. Its capacity to harmonize with both delicate and robust flavors solidifies its status as a preferred selection for connoisseurs of fine food and wine.

Serving and Storage Guidelines

To fully enjoy Jacquesson 745, proper serving and storage are crucial. The ideal champagne serving temperature ranges from 8-10°C (46-50°F). This temperature allows the wine’s complex flavors and aromas to shine without masking its nuances.

For Jacquesson storage, keep bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place. Maintain a constant temperature between 7-12°C (45-54°F) and stable humidity. This prevents cork drying and preserves the wine’s quality. Avoid areas exposed to direct sunlight or temperature fluctuations, which can negatively impact flavor.

When cellaring champagne, such as Jacquesson 745, consider its aging potential. Experts suggest a drinking window from 2023 to 2033, allowing the wine to develop further complexity and richness over time. Proper storage conditions are essential for realizing this potential.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that your Jacquesson 745 maintains its exceptional quality and develops its full potential over time.

Investment and Collection Value

Jacquesson 745 emerges as a premier selection for champagne enthusiasts. It captures the essence of the 2017 vintage, making it a highly sought-after piece for any serious collector. The blend of 53% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, and 17% Pinot Meunier highlights the terroir’s finest qualities.

Market Position

The market value of Jacquesson 745 is clear, with a robust standing among connoisseurs. Scores ranging from 92 to 94 points from Wine Spectator and James Suckling underscore its excellence. These accolades affirm its status as a highly coveted collector’s item.

Aging Potential

Jacquesson 745 excels in aging potential, a critical aspect for collectors. Experts suggest enjoying it between 2023 and 2033. This timeframe allows the wine to mature, enhancing its value and appeal.

Collector’s Perspective

For collectors, Jacquesson 745 offers a unique opportunity. Its limited production and distinctive vintage make it a standout in the fine wine world. The ultra-low dosage of 0.75 grams per liter, classified as Brut Nature, appeals to those seeking a pure terroir expression. As part of Jacquesson’s numbered cuvée series, it embodies a singular moment, elevating its collectible status and potential for value appreciation.

Conclusion

Jacquesson 745 epitomizes the zenith of premium champagne excellence. It secured the fifth spot in a highly esteemed wine tasting event, garnering scores between 3.90 and 4.35. This achievement underscores the brand’s dedication to crafting exceptional, terroir-driven champagnes.

The Jacquesson 745’s excellence is mirrored in its unique blend composition. It features the finest grapes from Aÿ, Dizy, Hautvillers, Avize, and Oiry. The meticulous production process, involving fermentation and maturation in older oak foudres, yields a complex flavor profile. This complexity is highly prized by wine connoisseurs.

Critics have lauded this premium champagne for its remarkable balance and distinctive character. Tasting notes range from white flowers and nectarine to warm biscuits and chalky minerality. Jacquesson 745 offers a sensory journey that embodies the pinnacle of artisanal winemaking. Its aging potential, extending to 2050, cements its status as a collector’s gem and a testament to Champagne Jacquesson’s enduring legacy.