Julien Prelat 'Chantemerle' Blanc de Noirs Brut, Champagne, France NV (2023 Base)

"Chantemerle" Blanc de Noirs Brut NV (2023 Base) is a captivating grower Champagne from the Côte des Bar, where Julien Prélat has quickly earned a reputation for crafting terroir-driven wines with remarkable purity and precision. Made exclusively from Pinot Noir sourced from the Chantemerle lieu-dit, this single-vineyard cuvée showcases the depth and energy of the region's Kimmeridgian limestone soils. The 2023 base vintage reveals expressive aromas of ripe orchard fruit, wild strawberry, red apple, citrus zest, toasted brioche, and white flowers, accented by hints of chalk and spice. The palate is vibrant and finely textured, balancing generous fruit with crisp acidity, a creamy mousse, and a pronounced mineral backbone that carries through to a long, dry finish. Elegant yet powerful, Chantemerle is a beautifully focused Blanc de Noirs that pairs effortlessly with roasted poultry, charcuterie, seared scallops, and aged cheeses.