Baron-Fuenté is a négociant that owns almost 90 acres of vines and purchases another 90 acres "sur pied," meaning that they pick the grapes. This is an important distinction since many négociants buy "sur lattes," meaning in bottle! This delicious Champagne is composed of 10% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, and 60% Meunier and had been aged three years on the lees. It is fermented at relatively cold temperatures in stainless steel with 100% malolactic fermentation. The wine has a very light, white-gold color for the blend, which is predominantly black grapes and a very pretty, tight bead. On the nose it is flowery and exotic, with a doughy richness to anchor down the wildflower elements. On the palate the wine is well-balanced, light, and finishes very clean. This Champagne is a spectacular aperitif. The current batch is 40% reserve wines and dosed at 9 grams per liter. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne buyer)