Guy de Forez Tradition Brut Champagne

The Guy de Forez Tradition NV is made up entirely of Pinot Noir from the challenging 2011 and 2010 vintages. (We are not here to say that time heals all wounds, but when it comes to Champagne, time under the cork can work wonders). The dosage for this cuvee is 10 grams per liter which can kindly work as a preservative for long term ageing. The color of this Blanc de Noirs is a pale copper with aromas of cream, hazelnut, nutmeg, stone fruits and golden apple. The palate is present with apricots, nectarines, clotted cream and lemon zest all kept in check by good zingy acidity. This will work well with lean beef, so try it with a simple but elevated meal like filet mignon with blue cheese butter. D&M Tasting Notes

Guy De Forez, family growers founded in the  1950s that own 25 acres of vines in the Aube region of Southern Champagne. The Aube region is renowned for its production of the red varietals of Champagne (it is closer to Burgundy than it is to the rest of Champagne) so it should be no surprise that 90% of Guy de Forez’s plantings are Pinot Noir. (The remainder of their hillside holdings is Chardonnay.) They care not just for their vines but the land on which they are grown, and they have been on the forefront of sustainable winegrowing in the region. Guy De Forez is run by the husband and wife team of Francis and Sylvie Wenner out of their 17th century home. Michael Kennel, D&M