From: Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France

Varietal: Chardonnay

Tasting Notes: A beautiful, golden appearance with straw reflections and extremely fine bubbles. Aromas of delicate white flowers, a faint lemon zest that leads to scenting oyster shell and sea spray, served on top of just-out-of-the-oven croissants. The palate integrates silken bubbles with flavors of Hawthorne flower, the gist of perfectly buttery pastry, and a mineral freshness that’s reminiscent of sea shells (oh hey, limestone soils!).

Pairing: This champagne is a gastronomic experience all on its own, and it will just get better with food. It would go beautifully with soft cow’s milk cheese, any type of cheese tart, and ikura (salmon roe) sushi. Personally, it has me craving this recipe for Steamed Clams with Spring Herbs by Melissa Clark. (Basically, you’re good to go with anything fresh with herbs and/or seafood.)