De Sousa : Cuvée des Caudalies Grand cru 2013

Fragrant floral and citrus-zest aromas to go with the pastry, brioche and walnut notes. Powerful and intense on the palate with a velvety texture and lively, zesty acidity. So long and delicious. Light toasty notes come out at the end. 100% chardonnay from Chetillon in Le Mesnil sur Oger. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. 3g/L dosage. 2,000 bottles only. Drink or hold.

Made from 100% Chardonnay from a very late harvest in October, the 2013 Champagne Grand Cru Le Mesnil Caudalies Extra Brut is in a great spot right now and maturing, but not overly so. Aromas of custard and preserved lemon as well as a more subtle mousse are followed by a wine with a lovely, refined feel that’s elegant and supple on the palate, with savory saltiness coming through on the finish. It has good length and is a delightful wine now, although it should also continue to drink well for another 10 years. There is an underlying oily texture that is also quite appealing and would be great with simple roast chicken.