Enoteca, the famous wine cellar recently hosted a cocktail party to celebrate its 20th Anniversary at the Four Seasons Hotel, Beirut.
To commemorate this event, Mr. Michel Drappier, Owner of Champagne Drappier, opened the largest bottle of champagne in the world (Melchisédech) for the first time in the Middle East, containing 30 liters of wine and more than 2 billion bubbles.
Melchisédech is the largest bottle of champagne in the world. It is worth noting that at Drappier everything from half bottles to the 30-liter Melchisédech undergoes a second fermentation (the one that creates the bubbles) in the same bottle in which it is shipped. At other houses, the largest bottles, and their smaller cousins, may be filled using transvasage (“pouring over”) from more regular-sized bottles, where the second fermentation has taken place.
When you think big, you tend to think commercial... So for me, it was not about opening the bottle, but more about tasting its content, and believe me it was shockingly good. Filled with Carte D'or, Drappier's finest, the bottle was served to the invitees for the pleasure of their taste buds.
Carte d’Or (NV): 80% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay, 5% Pinot Meunier.
I got a glass filled to top and took a moment to appreciate its constitution. A light color, subtle and homogenous bubbles and some fresh aromatic perfumes prepare you for a fine experience. A fine drink that's lightly fruity, non acidic and ends with an enjoyable dryness.
I'm a fan of Drappier, a champagne producer I respect and appreciate, but I was not prepared to enjoy a drink that's even better than the normal 75cl size.
Mabrouk Enoteca, and thank you for giving us the chance to enjoy this side of luxury right here in Lebanon.
