Clos des Goisses 2010 casket

The Clos des Goisses 2010 comes from Philipponnat's walled vineyard in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, a steep, south-facing chalk site that ranks among the most distinctive in Champagne. The blend is 61 per cent Pinot Noir and 39 per cent Chardonnay and rests for eight years before release. 37 per cent of the wine is fermented in wood, which gives it depth without oxidising it prematurely. The house avoids malolactic fermentation, and the dosage of 4.25 g/l makes it an extra brut.

The nose shows spicy and toasty notes; on the palate it is fresh, mineral and taut, with sour cherry and spice in the aftertaste. Serve it at 10 to 12°C in a large white wine glass, and feel free to open it ahead of time in a decanter. It goes with game, truffle, caviar and soft cheese. With the necessary patience it will go on maturing for decades. The gift box is included.