Leclerc Briant was an early adopter of organic practices beginning in the 1960’s and pioneered the concept of single-vineyard Champagne starting in the 1970’s. Fifth generation vigneron, Pascal Leclerc started to follow biodynamic principles in 1988, with part of the production Demeter certified since 2003. Today, enologist Hervé Jestin continues the legacy of this visionary house. Ten hectares of vineyard spread between the Premier Cru villages of Cumières, Hautvillers, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Bisseuil in the Vallée de la Marne, Villers-Allerand and Rilly la Montagne in Montagne de Reims and the Grand Cru villages of Cramant and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger in the Côte des Blancs. Leclerc Briant also holds long-term contracts with another 8 hectares of biodynamically farmed vineyards. Les Basses Prières is from a single 0.17-hectare plot in the premier cru village of Hautvillers in the Vallée de la Marne. The southeast facing plot is planted to 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay with an average vine age of 40 years. Spontaneous fermentation and aging take place in used 225-liter French oak barriques for 9 months followed by 36 months aging sur lattes. The wine receives a low dosage with just 2 grams per liter of residual sugar. 1,800 bottles produced.

The 2018 Marc Hébrart Rive Gauche-Rive Droite Grand Cru Millésime offers a balanced blend of equal parts Pinot Noir from Aÿ and Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs. This Extra Brut Champagne, with a dosage of 3 grams per liter, was disgorged in preparation for long-term aging and refinement. More complex and spicier than its 2016 counterpart, this vintage reveals aromas of spices, toast, baked bread, white flowers, and spring blossoms. Medium to full-bodied, it is dense and rich, with a delicately layered fruit core. The palate is well-balanced, concluding with bright acidity and a refined, pinpoint mousse. This 2018 vintage underscores Hébrart’s meticulous approach, offering a Champagne that pairs structure with elegance and the ability to develop further with time. Drinking Window: 2024–2044.

The Selection Brut 1er Cru from Marc Hébrart is fresh and mineral, which excites the tastebuds with its brilliantly acidulous notes. The perfect cocktail champagne. The Marc Hébrart Sélection Brut 1er Cru is made from 70% Pinot Noir from the terroir of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ and Avenay and 30% Chardonnay from the Grand Cru classified terroirs of Bisseuil and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. For a number of years now Marc Hébrart has applied reasoned viticultural practices to his vines, and makes his wines in small batches in order to preserve the personality of each parcel and each separate terroir. Reviews: 14.5 / 20 Gault & Millau 16.5 / 20 Jancis Robinson 92 / 100 Parker 83 / 100 Richard Juhlin 91 / 100 Wine Spectator 91 / 100 Vinous

The Champagne Pascal Agrapart Grand Cru Avizoise Blanc de Blancs (Disg. Jul 24) 2018 is a standout example of the renowned quality and finesse of Champagne. This vintage 2018 offering from the esteemed Agrapart estate in France showcases the purest expression of Chardonnay, with a striking pale golden colour and a fine, persistent bead. On the nose, delicate aromas of white flowers, lemon peel, and toasted brioche give way to a complex palate of ripe green apple, citrus, and subtle mineral notes. The mouthfeel is rich and creamy, yet perfectly balanced with a refreshing acidity that leads to a long, elegant finish. This champagne is a testament to the mastery and dedication of Pascal Agrapart, and is sure to impress even the most discerning of palates. Enjoy now or cellar for future enjoyment.