Brut Souverain

The Brut Souverain shows how the Reims house of Henriot builds its champagnes: for precision and finesse rather than power. The blend is 50% Chardonnay, mainly from the Côte des Blancs, 45% Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims and 5% Meunier. 30% reserve wines add depth, and two thirds of the grapes come from grand cru and premier cru sites. The wine spends three years on the lees, then eight months on racks.

On the nose, pear and citrus meet blossom, brioche and roasted almonds. On the palate the mousse is very fine, with vanilla, white flowers, sour cherry and candied plum. The texture is creamy and the freshness is kept. As an aperitif it is a reliable companion. Serve it at 8 to 10 °C in a tulip or white wine glass. It is ready to drink now, but will gain for another five years and more.