Blanc de Blancs 2015

Alfred Gratien's Blanc de Blancs 2015 is a pure Chardonnay, sourced mainly from grand cru sites on the Côte des Blancs. The house in Épernay is known for its cask ageing, and this vintage too feels precisely cut and rich at the same time. In the glass it shows a deep yellow with lively bubbles. The nose opens cleanly with lemongrass and almonds, and with a little air come sponge finger, pear, lemon verbena and yellow blossom.

On the palate power meets finesse: delicate buttery notes, a silky texture and a long, soft finish with salty minerality. Serve it at 9 to 10 °C in a wide white wine glass so the bouquet can open up. It goes well with fresh oysters and foie gras, and works just as happily as an aperitif. The 2015 vintage also has real ageing potential, so a bottle in the cellar is worth it.