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 dampening the freshness.

On the nose there are peach and citrus fruit. The opening is open and, for a Blanc de Blancs, surprisingly gentle, 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 bit of volume. The producer sees the best drinking window within seven years.