Frerejean Frères, Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut, Nv

"Rich and reverberant. Lots of depth. Far from typical Blanc de Blancs... Hint of oxidation which is what they want, apparently...big and bold, very long. Obvious autolysis"

"The Frerejean Frères Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru is as tasty a champagne as I’ve had in yonks. Made from 100 per cent Côte des Blancs Chardonnay – largely from the 2013 vintage but using a sizeable proportion of reserve wines from 2010, 2011 and 2012 too – it’s in peak condition. With intricate notes of toast, honey, butter, cream and mango, it’s wonderfully stylish and satisfying (and comes in a gorgeously presented and packaged clear-glass bottle too). It’s a serious alternative to such mighty wines as, say, Ruinart Blanc de Blancs, and considerably cheaper. Gosh it’s good! "

"This particular champagne was incredible, with loads of nutty brioche on the nose as well as apples and orchard fruits. Its mouthfeel was far silkier, richer and plumper than any of the wines beforehand and as a small grower champagne, with a production of only 3000 bottles, this rivals any of the big brands for taste alone. We’re going as far to say it outstrips them. Sorry Ruinart but we’ve got a new favourite Blanc de blancs. (2016)"