2016 Geoffroy, Champagne Extra-Brut Blanc de Noirs 1er Cru "Empreinte"

Let’s get right to the point: Tonight’s Friday Champagne bonus is not for the faint of heart. Jean-Baptiste–a fifth generation winemaker in the Montagne de Reims–puts all of his talent and experience with Pinot Noir into this special vintage cuvée that he calls “Empreinte,” which loosely translates to “footprint,” but in effect this is the Geoffroy stamp, or perhaps the virtual family seal–in other words it’s a guarantee of the utmost quality. Like all the great Champagnes there is balance and finesse, but what stands out most is power. Robust and structured, with an explosive aromatic quality, this is sparkling wine that simply cannot be ignored. I appreciate delicacy, but when the moment calls for an unabashedly impactful Champagne that isn’t afraid to flex, I’m reaching for Geoffroy’s 2016 “Empreinte,” and you should too! Jean-Baptiste Geoffroy is one of the most thoughtful and warm people, let alone winemakers, that I’ve met in the wine business. He’s a fifth generation grower-prod