Femme de Champagne Grand Cru and half-bottle

Behind Femme de Champagne Grand Cru lies Duval-Leroy's determination to assess every parcel individually. The cuvée is 87 per cent grand cru Chardonnay, from Chouilly, Avize, Oger and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger among others, each aged separately. Thirteen per cent Pinot Noir is aged in oak barrels and provides backbone and roundness. Nine years in the cellar give the champagne the depth you look for in prestige cuvées. This version is the half bottle.

The glass fills with golden wine and fine bubbles. Vanilla pastry and wood appear first, then lemon, mandarin, blossom and white fruit. The palate is fine and precise, with hazelnut, honeysuckle and a hint of citrus zest, and the aftertaste lingers. Serve it at 10 to 12 degrees in a wide white wine glass. It goes well with delicate fish dishes, shellfish or tender veal with a light sauce.