NV Hebrard Blanc de Blancs

Chardonnay from premiers crus vineyards in Grande Vallée de la Marne and Côte des Blancs. Grande Vallée de la Marne is Pinot terroir and, I'm told, the Chardonnay is deeper as a result. This is a blend of 2019 and 2020. Disgorged 18 October 2022. I literally got the smell of toasted panini when I lifted the glass to my nose. I even looked around to check: no, no one was eating toasted panini. Then leafiness: rocket greens, basil, bay leaf. A transparent texture, like a lemon bonbon, sucked see-through. Candy-striped. Pineapple. Masses of tropical fruit that is absolutely high-wired to the hilt with acidity. A glorious tango of fruit with impeccable acidity. I love it! GV (TC)

100% Chardonnay. Hand-picked, controlled-temperature stainless-steel fermentation, natural malo. 70% 2019, 10% 2018, 20% 2017. 30 months sur lattes. Dosage 4 g/l/ A bit drier than their Sélection. Green peaches and lime with a touch of honey. Cement dust. Tight, very slightly harsh bubbles. Horseradish notes. Bit rustic. (TC)

Coming from three vintages, with 65% from 2018, 25% from 2016, and the remainder from the 2017 vintage, the NV Champagne Blanc de Blancs Brut offers a nice range of depth, with a hint of spiciness in its notes of fresh ginger, green apple, and saline. There is a balanced dosage that rounds out through the mid-palate, with an undercurrent of lime and more green apple skin. Pleasant and snappy, it feels like it can go a little longer than the Reserve. Drink 2023-2033.