DOMAINE JEAN NOEL GAGNARD Grand Lys Extra Brut Chardonnay, Cremant de Bourgogne

From vineyards just outside Premier Cru village, this wine ticks both boxes for both floral and mineral. Delicious on its own, or with crustaceans and shellfish. Can also be cellared for a few years.

Pale gold in colour, limpid and brilliant with silver reflections. The first nose is expressive with notes of brioche and vanilla. After aeration, more floral notes (honeysuckle) appear. Well balanced in the mouth with an acidity which brings plenty of freshness. The finish is juicy and mouth-watering with notes of citrus fruits and zest. A beautiful and energetic wine. Food and wine pairings: Aperitif, white fish in sauce.

Domaine Bernard Defaix is a fourth-generation family estate with deep roots in the Chablis region. Their holdings in Montmains, one of the region's best-regarded Premier Cru sites, lie on Kimmeridgian clay-limestone soils and consistently produce wines of clarity and drive. The fruit is hand-harvested and fermented with native yeasts. A portion of the wine is aged in older oak barrels, while the rest is aged in stainless steel, striking a balance between structure and freshness. Each vintage shows the signature Montmains profile: citrus peel, oyster shell, and green apple on the nose, followed by a palate that's taut, stony and long. There's no excess weight here, just a clear line from vineyard to glass. Bernard Defaix's Chablis has become a dependable name for those who seek Premier Cru quality without the complications. A wine to enjoy now or cellar for several years, particularly in stronger vintages. Serve it cool, alongside shellfish or roast chicken.

Aromatics: Floral and citrusy notes on the nose, with yeasty and saline characteristics. Palate: Bursting with youth and audacity, this sparkling is fresh and lively. Mineral and elegant with a good acidity and texture. A sparkling cuvee to remember in the world of bubbles!