Disgorged May 2023. Like this grower’s Latitude, this is 100% Côte des Blancs Chardonnay (the vineyards are in Cramant, Avize, Oger and Vertus), yet the vineyards have thinner topsoils, and so the vine roots plunge straight into the chalky bedrock. The name here refers to the vertical nature of the geographic locations of the vineyards as well as the style of wine resulting from the chalky soils of these sites, i.e. a more linear, mineral wine. While Larmandier’s Latitude is expansive across the palate, the Longitude is all about minerality, line and raciness. William Kelley has called this wine “one of the finest non-vintage bottlings to be found in Champagne”, and the high ratio of reserve wines (40% from their perpetual reserve started in 2004) should leave you with little doubt as to the quality on offer. This bottling is based on the 2018 vintage, with 40% reserve wine drawn from a ‘perpetual’ reserve started in 2004.

G.H. Mumm Grand Cordon is all about making a statement. This signature cuvée means doing things your own way, creating your own style, and celebrating your own triumphant achievements. It’s about honouring the past, but with a reinterpretation for the future. The new, revolutionary Mumm Grand Cordon bottle breaks convention. It is the result of the combined dynamism of Chef de Caves Didier Mariotti and designer Ross Lovegrove. Their meeting of the minds created an optimal oenological shape with a long and slender neck to accompany the development of aromas in the wine. Visually the bottle is unique. A red ribbon is indented into the glass in place of a traditional label, making a powerful statement celebrating the iconic red sash of the Maison. Experience this fresh approach and appreciate the pleasure and power of Pinot Noir. Embrace and celebrate its energy and stylish unconformity as the intensity of the wine frees your mind from the confines of what was before. This champagne is a brightly sparkling, light golden yellow liquid with an abundance of fine and elegant bubbles. The nose reveals initial aromas of ripe fresh fruit (white and yellow peaches, apricots), tropical notes (lychee and pineapple). It then opens up with the fragrance of vanilla before developing notes of milky caramel, breadcrumbs and yeast, culminating in aromas of dried fruit and honey. An explosion of freshness in the mouth, followed by strong persistence. The complex aromas of fresh fruit and caramel perpetuate the intensity. Mumm Grand Cordon signifies triumph and elation – a symbol of success to be experienced and celebrated, whether as a toast for the ultimate moment or savoured with a meal of white meat or fish such as monkfish or red mullet.

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.