NV-C Guyot Choppin Brut, Champagne, France (750ml)   

About the Icons
A Quarterly Sparkling Wine Club Selection
Octave Haton founded this 4th generation, family-owned Champagne House in 1920, in the Marne Valley—in the town of Damery—7 km from Epernay. His son René succeeded him and grew the estate with the purchase of additional vineyards. Today, the Haton family finds itself among the 30 largest producers of Champagne. They source fruit from approximately 80 crus. Including eight from their own estates—which consists of 20 hectares of sustainably farmed vineyards—and purchase an additional 75 hectares worth of fruit from select sites all over Champagne, including Grands Cru and Premiers Cru vineyards.

Expertly crafted by winemaker Jean-Noël Haton, the Guyot-Choppin Brut Champagne is a blend of 60% Pinot Meunier and 40% Pinot Noir. The grapes were pressed, settled and then gravity racked, preserving the freshness and aromas of the juices. The primary alcoholic fermentation was regulated in stainless steel tanks at 18 °C. Aging on the lees and malolactic fermentation add complexity and character. 10g/L MCR (rectified concentrated grape must) for the dosage— instead of sugar cane or sugar beet—for a more integrated, harmonious finish, it was then aged for 2 years in bottle prior to release.

Golden yellow, with lively, fine bubbles. The nose shows hints of brioche, fresh apples and floral notes. Crisp and fine with a lovely mousse, the palate is fresh, with vibrant acidity and flavors of both red and Pippin apples, stone fruit and beeswax. A delightfully balanced Blanc de Noirs, this Champagne is elegant and structured with a long, citrus-laced, creamy finish.