Pale yellow color. Beautiful, crisp nose of yeast/marmite, toast & brioche. The palate gives young green melon while fine bubbles coat the palate. Pair with tonkatsu, fried whole fish, risotto and shrimp etouffee.

This wine truly surprised me. I was worried that Pinot Gris’ high aromatics would overpower the nuance and elegance that defines Champagne, but with one sniff these worries were put to rest. The nose is toasty and chalky, as champagne should be, but still expresses the aromatic profile of Pinot Gris. There is a ton of red apple, pear, and honey on the nose. The palate confirms the nose and is beautifully complemented by a firm streak of acidity. If you like the generous fruit of Prosecco and are interested in trying something more refined, I would give this a try!

"Retour en avant" literally translates to "return forward," as in, going back to your roots. What roots, you say? Well, this Champagne is made from 100% Pinot Gris. Yes, they are allowed to grow Pinot Gris in Champagne, but it is uncommon nowadays and near-extinct in the region. The founding family of Derot-Delugny were big fans of Alsatian wine, particularly Pinot Gris, so over 30 years ago they planted a small plot and that's where this comes from. So, yes, it is an oddity, but it is also delicious! I was genuinely impressed. Full of brioche with great acidity, and just a touch more fruit than a blanc de blanc, but still elegant. Also, full of minerality! Pinot Gris is tricky to grow in Champagne, and so they do not make this bottling every year, so pick it up while you have the chance. I could not stop revisiting this bottle all evening!