Leaving the reservation: Champagne Jean Marc Vigreux-Frere Brut NV

From a family owned wine grower out of Cauroy-les-Hermonville , a small village in the Champagne part of the Massif de Saint-Thierry, north of Reims. Small fruit parcels, juice sent to an Epernay establishment to “be sparkling”.

Only available via Don McLean and champagnedirect.co.nz. L bought this to celebrate her birthday, which is tomorrow. We are warming up our ski boots before the fire, as we are getting up VERY early in the morning to head up to the hill.

I enjoy Champagne perhaps once a year, so am in no position to judge this wine with any great knowledge. However this is quite good. 12% ABV. Effervescent, with nice fine lasting bubbles, French stick loaf nose; crisp apples in the mouth with a strong crusty bread finish. 3+.