The most northern of Suenen’s Oiry parcels, La Cocluette is also home to the domaine’s oldest vines (planted in 1925), a site where the ancient roots bury deep into the dense Campanian chalk (the younger plantings from this site go into the Oiry Blanc de Blancs). Vines of this age are as rare as hens’ teeth in Champagne, and they gift tiny yields of concentrated berries. The land here is largely flat with a somewhat northern exposure. Here the base wine fermented naturally and aged for nine months in one 700-litre concrete egg and one 600-litre Stockinger barrel (the same that is used each year). It then aged sur lies for 60 months in bottle until disgorgement in July 2022, when it was dosed with 3 g/L. Suenen explains that the wines from this vineyard express themselves with great finesse. “The energy brought by this calcium-rich terroir makes the mouthfeel richer through a silky bubble. With time, the finish lengthens on a salivating mineral vibrancy.” Put another way, this is a more intense and complex expression of this region’s naked-chalk terroir than the NV Oiry

The 2017 Champagne Suenen Montigny sur Vesle La Grande Vigne Meunier (Disg. TBA) is a true reflection of its terroir, showcasing the unique character of the Montigny sur Vesle region in Champagne, France. This wine, crafted by the renowned Suenen estate, is a stunning example of a single varietal Meunier champagne from the exceptional 2017 vintage. On the nose, delicate aromas of ripe red apples, juicy pears, and fragrant white flowers dance gracefully with hints of toasted brioche and subtle mineral notes. The pale golden hue in the glass is a sight to behold, leading to a palate that is both elegant and complex. Flavors of crisp apples and pears are joined by a touch of honeyed sweetness and a refreshing acidity, balanced perfectly by a creamy, lingering finish. This champagne is a true masterpiece, showcasing the skill and passion of Suenen's winemaking. It is a must-try for all champagne lovers.

The Champagne Bérêche et Fils Ludes Premier Cru Le Cran (Disg. Jul 2024) 2017 is a stunning example of the quality and craftsmanship that can be found in the Champagne region of France. This vintage, produced by renowned winemaker Raphael Bérêche, displays a pale golden color with delicate bubbles dancing in the glass. On the nose, aromas of green apple, citrus, and brioche entice the senses. The palate is crisp and refreshing, with notes of lemon, pear, and a hint of toasted almonds. This champagne boasts a fine balance of acidity and minerality, with a long, elegant finish. It is a true reflection of the terroir and the skill of its producer. Enjoy now or cellar for a few years to fully appreciate its complexity and depth. Santé!

The Champagne Bérêche et Fils Grand Cru Mailly Champagne Blanc de Noirs (Disg. Jul 2023) 2018 is an exquisite offering from esteemed winemaker Raphael Bereche in the Champagne region of France. Crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, this Blanc de Noirs showcases a beautiful pale gold color with delicate bubbles dancing in the glass. On the nose, enticing aromas of ripe red apples, brioche, and hints of toasted almonds greet the senses. The palate is elegant and complex, with flavors of stone fruits, lemon zest, and a touch of minerality leading to a long, crisp finish. This vintage 2018 Champagne is a true representation of the Grand Cru terroir of Mailly and will only continue to improve with age. Enjoy now or cellar for even greater depth and complexity. Salut!

Disgorged November 2022. Petit Meslier has formed an integral part of Aurélien Laherte’s Les 7 cuvée for almost 20 vintages. One of Champagne’s heirloom varieties, Meslier is a historic cross between Gouais Blanc and Savagnin. Although it has been largely forgotten in Champagne, the Laherte family has remained attached to the grape’s personality and its ability to retain acidity, even in warmer vintages. Between 2014 and 2018, Laherte established a mid-slope vineyard on Chavot’s clay/limestone soils, using massal cuttings from the domaine’s oldest Meslier vines. This wine marks the third release of this exciting project. The grapes are pressed in Laherte’s antique Coquard press, and the juice ferments naturally in old barrel. The wine ages for six months on lees in barrel and then a further 18 months sur lattes. This bottling is based on the 2020 vintage with 40% reserve wines and was disgorged by hand with just 2 g/L dosage (extra brut). When Domaine Didier Dagueneau decided to craft a sparkling wine in Pouilly-Fumé (yet to be released), Benjamin Dagueneau chose Petit Meslier as its hero. From the first glass, it’s clear why Laherte and Dagueneau have decided to put their faith in this unique, forgotten variety. Champagne thrill seekers should not hesitate.