Champagne Latitude Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs NV 75cl

A base of vintage 2014, this delivers a very charming style with aromas of ripe peach and melon. The palate adds grilled nuts and citrus in a soft, smooth and creamy mode. Good concentration. Drink now.

Larmandier-Bernier NV Extra Brut Latitude a Vertus NLR1001-13 (corresponding to a cuvee formerly referred to as “Tradition”) originates with vineyards on the south side of Vertus, whose relative warmth and weight of soil supports a majority of Pinot Noir, which comprises 20% of this cuvee. Alluringly aromatic, this combines saffron, fennel pollen, fresh apple, freshly baked bread, plus tangy buckwheat and ocean breeze, all of which reunite on a buoyant and polished palate, joined by raw almond and with the saline, alkaline and chalky mineral elements gaining prominence en route to a mouthwatering finish. It ought to merit attention for at least 2-3 years.

An exuberant version, with a fine, creamy bead, this offers flavors of pineapple, mango puree, floral and poached apricot notes, backed by juicy, balancing acidity and hints of honey, candied ginger, spice and herbs. Drink now through 2016. 5,000 cases made.