Blanc de Blancs

This blanc de blancs from Charles Heidsieck is 100 per cent Chardonnay and relies on tension rather than opulence. It combines 80 per cent wine of the vintage with 20 per cent reserve wines reaching back five years. Four years on the lees give it structure without dulling the freshness.

The nose shows peach and citrus fruit. The attack is open and, for a blanc de blancs, surprisingly soft, then freshness and drive take over. The finish is mineral and slightly salty. That suits oysters, steamed monkfish or mild fresh goat's cheese. Serve it at 8 to 10 °C in a white wine glass with a little volume. The producer sees its best drinking window as within seven years.