From: Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
Varietal: Chardonnay
Taste: Pale straw in the glass with a fine, persistent mousse. On the nose, the wine opens with aromas of green apple skin, Meyer lemon, and crushed chalk, layered with hints of fresh cream and white flowers. The palate is precise and linear, driven by citrus zest, underripe pear, and saline minerality. Textural complexity builds with a subtle lees-derived roundness, leading into a long, dry finish marked by crushed oyster shell and a touch of toasted brioche.
Pairing: The crisp acidity and chalk-driven minerality of this blanc de blancs make it a strong match for dishes emphasizing freshness, brine, or clean textures. It works particularly well with raw or simply prepared seafood—think oysters on the half shell, scallop crudo with lemon oil, or poached white fish with citrus beurre blanc. The wine’s fine mousse and savory finish also complement vegetable tempura or a shaved fennel salad with citrus segments.
About: From the village of Villers-Marmery, located on the northern slopes of the Montagne de Reims in Champagne, France, Champagne Noël Bazin has emerged as one of the most meticulous growers in this Premier Cru village. The domaine is a family-run operation that has remained relatively under the radar compared to larger houses. Still, its wines are deeply expressive of the chalky soils and high-acid Chardonnay for which the region is prized.
