This Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay) from artisanal small-batch champagne producer Maison Frerejean Frères is crafted exclusively from Premier Cru and Grand Cru Chardonnay grown in the Côte des Blancs in Champagne. A blend of vintages and reserve wines contributes to creating some generous and complex aromas. Aged for longer than most, this award-winning Blanc de Blancs is beautifully clear and elegant, and well worth the wait.

Tasting & Pairing Notes: Aromas of citrus fruits, passion fruit, mango and papaya, followed on the palate by a balanced intensity, minerality and a balanced acidity, delivering structure and elegance. Great as an aperitif, and will also enhance a cheese platter or a citrus dessert.

About the vineyard & winemaker: Maison Frerejean Frères was founded in 2005 by three brothers in the Grand Cru village of Avize, Champagne. Vines are over 40 years old, with the Grand Cru cuvée using grapes from vines dating back to 1926. The chalky soil is special here and the roots have to hunt for water and nutrients which drives good acidity. Originally conceived as a passion project to produce small-batch wines for friends and family, over time production has grown to over 130,000 bottles/year. The aim is not to reach 300,000 bottles of production, maintaining exclusive quality. The family motto is: "We take our time to make a champagne for people who can take the time to drink it". The result is a collection of very special champagnes and we love this mindful approach to appreciating quality sustainable wine.

In their own words: "We are artisanal, innovative, passionate and transparent. Contrary to industrial champagne houses, Frerejean Frères seeks to produce artisanal wines of champagne. When most brands age their wines in the cellars for 18 months and dose them highly, we have decided to let them rest for a minimum of 5 years in order to offer a transparent wine full of emotion. In this quest for quality, we go back to the origins to craft a wine of character."

Sustainability rating: 2* (Good) The Frerejean Frère ethos is one of craftsmanship and attention to detail, with the aim of ensuring the vines can express the terroir as perfectly as possible with minimal intervention in the vinification process. This means natural treatments, allowing nature to do what it does best. Low sulphites, low addition of sugar (thanks to later harvesting) and longer aging. Although not certified organic, this Champagne House avoids chemical treatments and aims for a fully natural approach to farming. Flowers are left to grow, and nature is left to take its course. This is a great sustainable approach to winemaking.