Champagne Veuve Monsigny N.V. Brut

It would be easy to dismiss a Champagne sold for under $AUD25 at a large retailer known for its cut price groceries as just cheap fizz. However, Veuve Monsigny is a pleasant surprise for a Champagne exclusively available at Aldi

Closer inspection of the label showed that this particular Champagne is not made by the Monsigny family, nor does that family have a Veuve who has lead them to greatness. Rather, it is made by a house by the name of Charles Mignon, located in the Marne Valley and made up of many grand cru and premier cru vineyards.

In fact, Charles Mignon produced their own label of Champagne that has won many awards and since 2003 is one of the few family houses to be a member of the prestigious Union des Maisons de Champagne.

Smaller growers will often sell off their grapes, or finished Champagne to big corporations as a way of supplementing their income, and this appears to be the case in this instance.

The origin of the Champagne being revealed, the tasting could go ahead with a little less suspicion.

Blend: 60% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Meunier

A light, fresh Champagne was revealed, with honey and acacia notes on the nose giving a very delicate overall effect. In the mouth the bubbles where quite fine, and pleasantly round on the tongue. The honey that had been so seductive on the nose was apparent on the palate, mixed with ripe nectarines. Fresh lemony hints at the back of the palate gave a fresh, clean finish.

Veuve Monsigny N.V. Brut would pair well with fish or chicken, or drunk as an aperitif with canapés.

It is not quite as refined as some of the larger houses, but as far as quality price is concerned, there is not much else in the market that can compete with it. A perfect party Champagne when you want to go French, but don’t necessarily have the budget for the more well-known brands.