Based on the generous 2018 vintage, the 746 fills the glass with a pale pink nuclear explosion of fine bubbles forming columns of visible freshness. A blend of 60% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Meunier, it is perfumed and succulent with slightly oxidized notes of ripe red apple mixed in with lemon confit, rose water, chalk dust and hints of spice. The medium to full-bodied palate is plush with showy red fruit that shimmers amid a vibrant acid energy that brings loads of freshness to the long finish. Disgorged February 2023 and finished with a two gram per liter dosage.

Based on the 2018 vintage, which was an early solar ripe vintage, the NV Champagne Cuvée 746 sees two grams per liter of dosage and is about 50% Chardonnay, the rest Pinot Noir and Meunier, and approximately 25% reserve wine. It pours a highly reflective straw hue and is aromatically forward out of the gate, with savory appeal and notes of citrus oil as well as juicy ripe berries. The palate is juicy and inviting, with approachable silky fruit and a fine mousse. It has wonderful balance, with the warmth from the vintage, and immediacy as well as structure that should provide a good bit of longevity over the coming 10-15 years.

This shows a rich and rather flamboyant character from the heat of 2018, giving a full and flavorful array of brioche and ripe apple, apple tart and dried pineapple. Full and plump with lots of ripe fruit at the end. Mostly chardonnay, the rest pinot. Three years on yeast. Dosage 1.5g/L. Drink now

Disgorged in November 2022 with two grams per liter dosage, the NV Extra-Brut Cuvée No. 746 is based on the 2018 vintage. The grapes were sourced from Avize and Oiry (32%) and Hauvillers (68%). Showing nicely, it offers up a delicate, ripe bouquet with aromas of baked bread, ripe orchard fruits, almonds, dried flowers and smoke. Medium to full-bodied, it’s fleshy with an enveloping core of fruit, a pinpoint mousse and a delicate, perfumed, ripe orchard fruit-inflected finish