Champagne Andre Chemin Premier Cru Excellence Brut 2010

Cellar for up to 15 years. No need to decant, serve slightly chilled. Founded in 1948 by André Chemin, this family winery has spent the last 70 years perfecting its own brand of sparkling Champagne wines. Now it is in its third generation, under the exemplary leadership of Sébastian and his wife Eva. During their tenure the winery has slowly transitioned into an era of sustainable farming and biodiversity, leading to even purer, terroir-influenced wines. The winery itself is found in the village of Sacy, in the rugged terroir of Montagne des Reims. This is a Premier Cru territory. The winery draws fruit from 6.5 premium hectares of vineyards, largely planted with Pinot Noir. This wine is a rarer beast in this part of Champagne - a “Blanc des blancs”, made from 100% Chardonnay. “Excellence” is aged for 10 years before being released, so it is the perfect wine for big occasions. Aromas of pure white flowers and fruits burst from the bottle, along with subtle hints of honey and caramel. It is beautifully round on the palate, well-structured and fresh. Discover notes of dry fruit and brioche, along with zippy citrus notes of lime blossom, grapefruit and lemon peel. Its taste should be savoured, so it can either be enjoyed alone or with mild, slightly salty dishes such as scallops, oysters or delicate poultry.

Price: £43.21 from 8wines UK