Etienne Sandrin Val Champignat 2017 Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut Champagne

This winemaker took over 10 ha of vineyards and decided to farm and raise his own wines versus selling to the coop as the previous two generations have done. After taking over in 2006 he gradually converted over to biodynamics and was certified with Demeter in 2018. This the fruit is all 2017 vintage and from a single site in Celles-sur-Ource from a hilltop west facing vineyard on rocky Kimmeridgian soils. Fermented in Stainless steel, this was aged on its lees for three years and disgorged without dosage. The nose is gorgeous and precise with great balance between lemon, yellow apple, mineral and saline notes. The palate is moderate in weight with upfront saline and mineral notes nicely contrasted with yellow apple and citrus fruit flavors. This is a site and winemaker to watch. D&M Tasting Notes