This cuvée has become synonymous with the kind of extreme quality that can today be expected from Champagne’s finest estates. The current release is based on the 2020 vintage and was disgorged in February 2024. Like its predecessors, this release comprises 65% fruit from the base vintage, with the balance from the two previous years. The blend is split between 35% Pinot Noir from Montagne de Reims (specifically Ludes, Trépail and Ormes), 35% Chardonnay from sites across Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne and 30% Meunier from Mareuil-le-Port in Vallée de la Marne. Ludes and Trépail provide the tension, offsetting the depth and texture of the Marne fruit and reserve wines. The average vine age is 40 years. The hard-harvested fruit ferments naturally in barrel before aging in barrel and tank. After bottling, the wine spends 36 months sur lattes in the Bérêche cellar, and finally, disgorgement by hand (!) with just under 6 g/L dosage. This is the kind of fastidious attention to detail you would expect from the finest prestige cuvées, and it shines through in the quality of the wine. Antonio Galloni (Vinous) is spot-on when he writes: “Although most readers probably associate Bérêche with some of their higher-end bottlings, the Brut Réserve is a real rock star.” The style is taut and focused; the wine’s natural density and texture are superbly balanced by crystalline acidity and smoky mineral resonance. Simply, it’s one of the most compelling introductions to elite grower Champagne on the market.

The 2013 Champagne Larmandier Bernier Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant is a true gem from the renowned Larmandier-Bernier winery in the Champagne region of France. This limited edition vintage was disgorged in 2019 and is presented in a grand 1500ml bottle, making it a showstopper on any table. On the nose, delicate floral notes of white blossoms and honeysuckle mingle with hints of fresh citrus and crisp green apples, creating a beautifully balanced aroma. On the palate, this champagne delights with a lively effervescence and a creamy texture, leading to a complex and elegant finish. The colour is a pale golden hue, illuminated with flashes of vibrant bubbles. This champagne is a true expression of the terroir, showcasing the unique qualities of the Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant vineyard. Enjoy now or cellar for a special occasion.

In the words of no less than James Halliday, "Krug is the greatest wine of Champagne". At the House of Krug every Vintage is crafted to be different. Every Krug Vintage reveals the expression of a particular year with its distinct character: it is the music of the year as captured by Krug. It is a blend of expressive wines from a single year enhanced by a stay of over ten years in the cellars. The result a manifestation of time, place and feeling that verily leaps from bottle to flute.

CHAMPAGNE SUENEN Oiry Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru La Cocluette

This cuvée was bottled in 2012, after the 2011 vintage had spent close to one year in cask, and was blended with 50% reserve wines from 2010. All of the vinification and ageing for both vintages was in barrique as always. Dosage was at 4g/L.

HENRIOT Cuvee Hemera, Champagne Produced from only Grand Cru vineyards with Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims and Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs in equal parts, then aged for a minimum of 12 years on the lees, this empyreal wine is delightfully delectable. A medium golden straw in colour, the Henriot Cuvee Hemera is elegant, very dry, light and lively. Expressing white peach and green fruits accented by a citrus lift, the Champagne has an enchanting creamy texture with generous layers of biscuity notes throughout, with a sleek, well-knit acidity and a long-lengthy finish across the palate.

The Philipponnat family has owned and run its Champagne house in the heart of the wine-growing areas of Aÿ, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ and Averney for over 500 years. A family of vignerons, winemakers and merchants since the 16th century, they famously supplied their wines to Louis XIV, the Sun King. The houses 20 hectares of vines are Grand and Premier Cru, ensuring quality and intensity in the wines. Mont de Mareuil, where Clos des Goisses is located, has been planted with vines since the 16th century. The Domaine was acquired by Philipponnat in 1935, and immediately became its jewel. The vineyard is planted with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes that make up this exquisite wine. Bright gold, fine effervescence forming a persistent bead. Elegant and fruity with notes of fresh raspberries and raspberry eau-de-vie. The finish is precise with notes of praline, frangipane, sponge cake and pastry cream. The attack is fresh and pur while on the palate, the wine is very elegant and expresses slightly mentholated notes. The finish is long and mineral. A wine suitable for the finest of occasions!

PHILIPPONNAT Clos des Goisses Just Rose Extra-Brut, Champagne