Alfred Gratien Blanc de Blancs '15

- Sensational blanc de blancs from a true artisanal producer

- Pair with Seared Scallops and herbed butter

- All Grand Cru Chardonnay fruit providing pristine freshness and poise

Vintage 2015, this surprising champagne made partially from Chardonnay Grands Crus from Avize and Cramant unfolds all the nobleness and specificities of Alfred Gratien Champagnes.

The yellow robe with green tints is enlivened by vigorous effervescence. The fine bubbles are quick to rise to a full mousse.

The initial nose has discrete notes of grapefruit, white flowers and crêpes. It is followed by a certain smoky tinge with notes of fresh butter and iodine. As the wine unveils its infinitely elegant character, youthful fragrance is revealed, suggesting real potential.

The initial taste is forthright and the wine’s body is instantly apparent. It is concentrated and dense, and underpinned throughout by an intense acidity for an exceptionally high quality tasting experience. Effervescence and sweetness discretely accompany the wine’s sensory qualities to create a silky texture.

The finish is impressively long at more than 12 seconds. There is a hint of salinity as well as chalky minerality.

If exceptional had a name, it would be Champagne Alfred Gratien . Alfred Gratien champagnes are handcrafted for guaranteed quality and consistency. A few miles away from Epernay’s bustling town center, deep in the heart of a Champagne vineyard, are the Alfred Gratien champagne cellars. It was here, on Rue Maurice Cerveaux, that Alfred Gratien set up his business and created his first cuvées in 1864. For over a century and a half, Alfred Gratien champagnes have remained a family affair perpetuated by the expertise and know-how of their founder.

The initial nose has discrete notes of grapefruit, white flowers and crêpes. It is followed by a certain smoky tinge with notes of fresh butter and iodine. As the wine unveils its infinitely elegant character, youthful fragrance is revealed, suggesting real potential.

This decidedly saline wine is a superb pair for larger shellfish and fish with silky, compact flesh such as lobster, rock lobster, sea bass, turbot and John Dory.