It’s a stunning, racy example of Avize, a little deeper than the Terre de Vertus, although more delicate and less fleshy than the Vieille Vigne du Levant.

Disgorged November 2022. Les Longues Voyes translates as ‘the long way’, referring not only to the 25 kilometres that you need to travel from the Laherte estate to arrive at the vineyard but also to the wine’s extended aging: 18 months in barrel and a further 18-20 months in bottle. The fruit is sourced from a single hectare of biodynamic vines in Chamery, Montagne de Reims, owned by a good friend of Aurélien Laherte’s. The 35-year-old vines are rooted in clay and silt over a limestone base. The wine was made from a single four-tonne press of grapes, which fermented naturally and matured in old Clos des Epeneaux and Leroux barrels. There was no malolactic conversion, and the dosage was 4 g/L. So, the estate now has two vintage Blanc de Noirs released at the same time: Les Vignes d’Autrefois from Meunier and Les Longues Voyes from Pinot Noir. The first comes from a chalky subsoil and the second from limestone, and it is fascinating to compare the different structures that result. Fans of Pinot Noir on limestone should move to the front of the queue.

Dont miss this rare chance to secure a magnificent wine from a top producer thats in seriously short supply. Made by an acclaimed winemaker at the top of their game, this is a slice of wine history you dont want to miss. Add it to your collection while you can.

On the nose, it is autumnal and warm, with surprising aromas of praline and lightly toasted hazelnuts. On the palate, its incredible balance offers a firmness to be expected from great Champagne. The Charles Heidsieck Vintage 2005 is a wine of distinct character, from an exceptional vintage.

At this price, you won't need to wait for a special occasion. Bichat Brut NV is French champagne at a not-so-French price. It's crisp, clean with a creamy mouth feel that punches well above its weight for French champagne in this price range.

Golden in colour, the Charles Orban Brut Blanc De Noirs NV Champagne has a very fresh nose with strong plum and blackberry aromas. It's powerful on the palate, with wild berry aromas enhanced by hints of cinnamon.