Hebrart Blanc de Blancs

Here is a compelling glass of champagne to restore ones faith in great Champagne. 100% Chardonnay and both delicate and penetrating, lovely in youth and even more charming over even decades under glass, Blanc de Blancs remains the most enduring touchstone for many a champagne drinker. Although the roots of this great house are in the Vallée de la Marne known more as the haunt of Pinot Meunier, Hebrart also has Grand Cru holdings in Chouilly and Oiry in the Côtes des Blancs that yeild exemplary fruit. All is hand picked, gently bucher pressed, fermented in petite cuvée and hand remuaged. Lemon curd and membrillo paste combine with the appetizing scent of brioche dough on the nose. A mouthfilling lift flushes every corner of the cheek, tongue, and seemingly every part of the mind with apple scented flavors, a persistent mineral edge, and a soft sided floral note that rises above the orchard fruit so vibrant in its youth but certain to fulfill its promise over years of rest in the cellar. Fresh yet ripened acidity makes this a comforting example of equipoise -the charming balance of superlative Blanc de Blancs.
Wine review by Nicholas D. Livingston, October 2012