Noël Bazin, L’ Exigeante Champagne

100% of the rare Chardonnay grown in the Montagne de Reims, known more as the heart of Pinot Noir in Champagne. Only a few hundred bottles make it to the U.S.

This golden champagne comes from vines over 50 years old in the heart of pinot noir country. It carries an attitude and personality that sets it apart from the Côte de Blancs. The 2019 vintage delivers rich aromas of ripe lemon, peach, yellow apple, fresh custard and baked pastries. The delicate bubbles carry flavors of dried fruits, lemon zest and key lime pie. It’s a joy to drink with a long, beautiful finish.

This champagne handles everything from soft creamy cheeses, chicken wings and deviled eggs to roasted poultry, grilled white fish or burgers and fries. A favorite of mine is to keep it casual with a bag of plain potato chips (a seriously underrated pairing) and share with a friend.

Coming from a tiny .75 acre east-facing, chalky slope.
The entire Bazin estate is just over 7 acres sitting on slopes uniquely suited to crafting their chardonnay wines in an area famous for pinot noir. They are fully committed to sustainable farming and minimal intervention in their winemaking. L'Exigeante represents one of their most exclusive productions, with only a few hundred bottles reaching the U.S. annually.