Chardonnay, Épernay, Champagne, France

Like a vintage 1953 white Corvette, classically tasteful & smooth as can be. Founded in 1930 by Pierre and Hélène Coquillette as a premier label counterpart to their ‘Pierre Coquillette’ label. Today, fourth generation winemaker Stéphane oversees the family label – encompassing 11ha, mostly in the Grand Cru village of Chouilly (but also in Épernay) practicing organic farming techniques – as well as his own. All grapes are hand-harvested, and the average aging time is nine months in stainless steel & enamel tanks. Stéphane is a firm believer in extended lees aging, therefor the wines are bottled with their lees (think texture and yeasty notes) & disgorged to order – something that is very unique in Champagne. Old-time richness with ultra-fine bubbles – lemon curd, creamed honey, chalky minerality, quince brioche, floral jam & Mutsu apple butter. Drink to celebrate final ends & new beginnings, they are the same thing after all.