Alfred Gratien NV Brut Champagne - France

Cépages: 50% Chardonnay - 25% Pinot Noir - 25% Pinot Meunier

93 Points Wine Spectator:"Delicate hints of verbena and spice notes of ground anise and cardamom accent rich flavors of ripe yellow peach and raspberry fruit, with notes of chopped hazelnut, pickled ginger and preserved lemon. Firmed by chiseled acidity, this is finely meshed and mouthwatering, with a satiny mousse and creamy finish. Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir."

Winemaker Notes: The pale yellow hue of this wine’s robe is complemented by its lively effervescence. The bubbles are small and quick to rise to a fine mousse.

The nose is moderately intense yet complex. The sweet pastry, biscuit and orchard fruit notes are followed and enhanced by hints of citrus, white flowers and fresh butter.

The initial taste is clean: this is a very silky and sparkling wine whose sugar content works well with its body. There is a certain chalky minerality and the texture is smooth. It is characterful without being overbearing.

The finish is crisp, with a slight mineral undertone, and long at 6 to 8 seconds. It leaves an excellently balanced acidic aftertaste, with a sugar component that is undeniably pleasing on the palate.