For nearly 300 years, the Vesselle family has been farming the chalky soils of Bouzy and cultivating some of the village’s best-placed pinot noir vines for generations. But while Bouzy may be known for pinot noir, this is smack in the Montagne de Reims, and chardonnay is no slouch either, especially when allowed to shine as it has here. Hailing from the rare 10% of the family holdings, this is the best of the best chardonnay, from vineyards that bask in the warm southeastern exposure on the chalky slopes of the Montagne de Reims, providing grapes of exceptional power, and unending freshness.  The hand harvested fruit is fermented with indigenous yeast in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks prior to aging for six years on the lees, prior to finishing without any dosage. Just about ten months on the cork now, this bottle has settled into something remarkable – a stunning Blanc de Blancs that exudes depth, concentration, and sheer power with every sip.

The wine is stylish and severe, with aromas of crisp orchard fruits, chipped flint, fresh-cut grass, followed by flavors of green apples and yellow plums, lemon zest, and an enticing sea spray finish. Harmoniously balanced, appropriately weighty, this is a bright, vinous Champagne worthy of a quiet, contemplative evening by a crackling fire. Grab a couple, quick – only about 8 cases available!