A Verzenay Grand Cru that splits the difference—half chardonnay, half pinot noir—and gets the best of both. A lovely round palate is lifted by bright acid that keeps everything balanced and lively. Layers of stone fruit, citrus, toasted nuts, and chalk build toward a long, mineral finish. A complete, age-worthy Champagne that shows just how good Verzenay can be.

Always one of my favorite offerings that we carry, I really enjoy the style of this producer and also it comes with a "hand" tied bottle and a tiny pair of Champagne branded scissors to cut the thick rustic string holding down the cork. Who doesn't like little scissors? That said, what really matters is what's in the bottle, and that's top notch as well. There's a little yeastiness on the nose and underneath is this lovely jasmine that just jumps out and brings the fruit with it, bruised golden apple, lemon curd, more white flowers, and then chalk in the finish. The palate has a touch of richness to it, lots of breadth as the acid coats and a finish that just won't quit. There's more apple, lemon candy, lemon zest, and really lovely chalky notes that carry through. This is really just fantastic stuff, and honestly one of the better "gifty" bottles in the price range.