Brut 2007

Alfred Gratien's Brut 2007 was made in small quantities and spent around ten years in the house's chalk cellars in Épernay. The blend is 59% Chardonnay, 25% Meunier and 16% Pinot Noir. It was aged in small 228-litre oak casks, which give it extra depth. The bouquet recalls biscuits, almond paste and hazelnuts, yet stays round and fine. On the palate fruit, softness and a slight bitter note with dry apple aromas mingle, carried by fresh acidity.

Give this champagne some air: it gains noticeably after a few minutes, and decanting is expressly recommended. Serve it at 10 to 12 °C in a large white wine glass. Good partners are risotto with white truffle, seafood or grilled lobster. A mature, layered vintage champagne for quiet hours at the table.