Shellfish Stew and Fish Broth

For an exceptional dinner, nothing beats the perfect pairing of a refined dish with an excellent champagne. Today, we invite you to discover an exquisite recipe for shellfish stew, enhanced by the Brut Millésime 2013 cuvée from Champagne Aspasie. With its aromas of dried fruits and its perfect balance of power and refinement, this golden-hued cuvée will beautifully elevate the delicate flavors of seafood.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg mixed shellfish (mussels, clams, cockles)
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 200 ml fish stock
• 100 ml dry white wine
• 100 ml fresh cream
• 30 g butter
• 1 sprig of thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Cleaning the Shellfish: Rinse the shellfish thoroughly under cold water to remove sand and impurities. Discard any that are open and do not close when lightly tapped.

Cooking the Shellfish: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and shellfish. Pour in the white wine and cover the pot. Cook over high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, until the shellfish open. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Preparing the Fish Broth: Add the fish stock to the shellfish cooking juice and reduce by half. Then, stir in the fresh cream and heat over low heat until the sauce slightly thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Assembling the Dish: Return the shellfish to the pot to warm them in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Tasting Tips

To fully enjoy the Brut Millésime 2013 from Champagne Aspasie with a shellfish stew, start by serving it at the ideal temperature of 9°C to reveal all its freshness. Use a slender, curved glass to concentrate the aromas while appreciating the finesse of the bubbles. This champagne, with its slight citrus acidity, perfectly complements the delicate and marine flavors of the shellfish, creating a harmonious balance between the freshness of the dish and the wine’s liveliness. Take time to savor each sip, alternating with a bite of your dish, for a memorable tasting experience where each element enhances the other.