A pleasantly oaky and toasty Champagne, this character and the creaminess from long yeast contact really harmonize the acidity and make this an accessible Extra Brut. A cuvée of 60% pinot meunier from the Vallée de la Marne, plus 30% chardonnay and 10% pinot noir, including 40% reserve wines. All of the base wines were vinified in wooden casks of various sizes, from the Burgundian, 228-liter version upwards. Drink now.

There's plenty of sticky, ripe and floral apricot fruit from the Meunier in the warm 2020 base, with touches of fennel, lemon and an alluring creamy texture that suddenly snaps into a dry, frank close. Approachable, yet full of interest and character. A blend that perfectly encapsulates the free-form nature of the Coteaux Sud d'Epernay in the hands of its leading, naturally-orientated producer.