Fans of Pinot Meunier or anyone looking for a zippy crowd-pleasing party Champagne is going to want to take heed. The nose is shy with subtle notes of cherry but surprisingly supported by a fresh jolt of bright acidity and the hallmark flavor of pomegranate. Super fun pick, and the price is right!

What a lively, historic Premier Cru grower-producer Champagne! A classic blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Meunier, the J. Lassalle "Cachet Or" is still made using a traditional wooden press, and aged three years on the lees! A lot of work goes into this tiny production (farmed from just 16 hectares on clay and limestone soil in Chigny-Les-Roses), which features three generations of women at the helm. This release sings with tangerine and orchard fruit, tempered by a slightly herbaceous, almost camphor, nose and a chalky finish. There is subtle toastiness from the lees, but mostly this is easygoing, bright Champagne – my notes literally read “crushable.” I can’t wait to enjoy a bottle al fresco as summer heat gives way to fall.