2012 Champagne Billecart-Salmon, Cuvée Louis, Blanc de Blancs, Brut

The Louis Blanc de Blancs is stunning this year. This is a quintessential Chardonnay from an exceptional vintage in Champagne. The nose is elegantly floral with a touch of hazelnut and brioche toast. There’s an impressive array of aromas on the nose: lemon zest, almonds, white flowers and savoury spice. It feels rich, and the palate is laden with baked goods and ripe orchard fruit – yet there is a precision that pierces through these flavours, and an impeccable freshness that balances the richness.