Staff Pick 2004 Tarlant L'aerienne Rose Brut Nature Apparel [LQwHsBSp]

If you think Champagne isn't built for gastronomy, open a bottle of Tarlant's mind bending, freakishly delicious L'Aerienne, and think again. Tarlant's been growing grapes in the Vallée de la Marne since 1687, and have long been an organic leader in Champagne - an area where forgoing chemicals is exceedingly rare. They've carved out a reputation for making some of the most layered, complex wines around; even within that context, L'Aerienne is something special. A 70/30 blend of Chardonnay and Pinot from one of the most exceptional vintages in recent memory, aged on the lees for 12 years, and released 17 years after its bottling, you'll be met with nougat, tarte tatin, and apricot on the palate, followed closely by citrus oil, wild-foraged mushroom, and plum skin.