Champagne
Champagne, the epitome of elegance and celebration, is widely regarded as the pinnacle of sparkling wines. As one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world, Champagne has captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs with its exceptional quality, refined craftsmanship, and iconic vineyards.
Historically, Champagne has been dominated by some world-acclaimed Champagne House, which source grapes and harvest from Champagne growers. These famous Grandes Marques include Louis Roederer (Cristal), Dom Pérignon, Krug, Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Bollinger, all of them are revered for their notable names that display unrivalled winemaking prestige and pedigree.
In the recent decade, the emerging Grower Champagne trend in Champagne is shaking up the industry by challenging the dominance of the big Champagne houses. These small-scale producers, also known as "Récoltant-Manipulant" or RM, grow their own grapes and produce their own Champagne, showcasing the unique terroir and character of their vineyards. Jacques Selosse, Ulysse Collin, and Champagne Vilmart & Cie are among the most prominent names in this trend, producing some truly artisanal and terroir-driven Champagnes.
Champagne is primarily made from three main grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These grapes are carefully selected and blended to create a harmonious and complex flavour profile. Chardonnay contributes elegance, freshness, and finesse, while Pinot Noir adds structure, depth, and fruitiness. Pinot Meunier brings a touch of roundness and vibrancy to the blend.
The region of Champagne is divided into several distinct sub-regions, including Montagne de Reims, Côte des Blancs, and Vallée de la Marne. Each sub-region has its unique terroir, characterized by variations in soil composition and microclimates, which influence the style and character of the wines produced.
Champagne offers various styles, from non-vintage blends to vintage cuvées and prestigious prestige cuvées. While Non-vintage Champagnes typically epitomise the house style, the vintage Champagnes are made from grapes harvested in one particular year (top vintages such as 1996, 2002, 2008 etc), in which these wines showcase the unique characteristics of the specific vintage.
The prestige cuvées, often the flagship wines of the renowned Champagne houses, are the pinnacle of excellence. These exceptional Champagnes are created using the finest grapes, the most meticulous winemaking techniques and often benefit from extended ageing to achieve unparalleled complexity and finesse.
Champagne is synonymous with celebration, elegance, and luxury. Its effervescent charm and timeless appeal have made it the drink of choice for countless special occasions and memorable moments. With its rich history, iconic vineyards, and unrivalled quality, Champagne continues to captivate wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Champagne
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(3x150cl) 2011Vinous (91)
The 2011 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Minéral Grand Cru is a very pretty wine, even if it is a touch light in this vintage. A wine of modest structure and complexity relative to the norm here, the Minéral does avoid the vegetal qualities and other strident notes of other 2011s. There is good energy and vibrancy to the wine, if not quite the layers of flavor that are signatures of the very best editions. The Minéral emerges from Les Champboutons in Avize and Les Bionnes in Cramant, both of which are high in limestone and planted with vines that are more than 40 years old. This release is equal parts 2014 ad 2013 vintages. Disgorged: May 2017. Dosage is 5 grams per liter.HK$8,505.00 -
(6x75cl) 2012Wine Advocate (95)
Disgorged in April 2019 with three grams per liter dosage, the 2012 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Extra Brut Minéral is showing brilliantly, bursting from the glass with aromas of ripe citrus fruit, warm bread, green apples and crushed chalk. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, chiseled and incisive, with a tensile, chalky core that displays considerable concentration and structuring dry extract, as well as a racy spine of acidity. This comes warmly recommended.HK$7,880.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2013 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Minéral is powerful, ample and generous. All of the natural richness of 2013 comes through in this striking, layered exquisitely beautiful Champagne that melds together the essence of top sites in Avize (Les Champboutons) and Cramant (Les Bionnes). Dried citrus, lemon oil, almond and savory herbs add striking shades of nuance throughout, but what is most remarkable about the Minéral is the interplay of textural richness and energy. A Champagne of total seduction, the 2013 simply has it all. Dosage: 5 gr/L. Disgorged: May, 2019.HK$8,950.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2014 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Minéral is a powerful, intense Champagne that captures all of the natural power of these old vines in Avize and Cramant. Aptly named, the Minéral is infused with tremendous mineral and soil inflections that give a real feeling of gravitas. Crushed rocks, slate, chalk and citrus accents are some of the many nuances that emerge with a bit of time in the glass. This release is fabulous. It is also a reticent wine, though, so at least a year or two in bottle will help soften. Dosage is 3 grams per liter. Disgorged: April, 2020.HK$8,275.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2015 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Minéral Grand Cru is bracing, taut and wiry. Crushed rocks, mint, white pepper and lemon peel drive this blend. The Minéral is especially fine in 2015. There is a bit of youthful austerity, but nothing a few years in bottle can"t take care of. The Minéral is one of the finer 2015s I have come across so far. Dosage is 3 grams per liter. Disgorged: May, 2021.HK$8,065.00 -
James Suckling (96)
Sharp and focused with very fine bubbles. Precise. Lots of almonds, lemon peel, crushed stones, white pepper and apricot stones, as well as white pears. This has captured so much energy, with a long and refined finish. 100% chardonnay. 3g/L dosage. Disgorged May 2022. Drink or hold.HK$6,395.00 -
HK$5,035.00 -
Wine Advocate (94+)
The 2018 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Minéral, disgorged in August 2024 with three grams per liter dosage, introduces the range of vintage wines. Defined by poor soils with just about 50 centimeters of topsoil, it comes from two chalk-based, old-vine parcels: Le Champ Bouton in Avize (vinified in tank) and Les Bionnes in Cramant (vinified in an old 600-liter barrel). “In 2017, we lost about 50% to 60% due to frost, then in 2018 we harvested three times the volume of 2017,” reveals Ambroise Agrapart, who is now making the wines, though his father is still very much present. More generously structured compared to the 2016 yet more precise than the 2017, it wafts from the glass with notes of tangerine zest, green apple and dried white flowers. Nakedly chalky with electric-like acidity, it maintains its reputation as the most tensile wine in the range, capturing the freshness much better than many other wines of this vintage.HK$5,720.00 -
Vinous (96)
The 2013 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Vénus is a gorgeous and eccentric wine. Sweet floral and minty overtones give the Vénus its distinctive high-toned profile. The richness and depth of this Chardonnay from a parcel planted in 1959 that has always been manually farmed, comes alive with a bit of time in the glass. The Vénus is such a special Champagne, as it is elusive and constantly changing in the glass as it shows a different side of its personality with each taste. I very much admire the sense of precision here. Vénus remains one of the most distinctive wines in all of Champagne. No dosage. Disgorged: May, 2019.HK$10,800.00 -
Vinous (95)
The 2015 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Vénus Grand Cru is sublime. Lemon confit, menthol, dried herbs and white pepper all meld together in the glass. More of a wine than Champagne, the Vénus is creamy and open-knit, with lovely freshness and plenty of character. No dosage. Disgorged: May, 2021.HK$10,765.00 -
Wine Advocate (98)
From old vines in lieu-dit La Fosse that are planted at somewhat lower density (1.2 meters apart) but where there are consequently very few missing vines or replants, Agrapart's striking 2016 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Vénus unwinds in the glass with scents of citrus oil, crisp stone fruit, toasted almonds, warm biscuits, orange zest and iodine. Full-bodied, concentrated and tightly wound, with terrific depth at the core, racy acids and a long, intensely saline finish, it's another brilliant wine from this benchmark grower-bottler.HK$13,720.00 -
HK$13,420.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
Disgorged in August 2024 without dosage, the 2018 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Vénus, as always, derives from La Fosse aux Pourceaux, a 0.6-hectare plot of land in Avize planted in 1959, which is farmed solely by man and horse, without the use of heavy mechanical equipment. With texture defined by the maturation in old 600-liter oak barrels, Vénus is more discreet than the broad shouldered Avizoise but more demonstrative than the crystalline Minéral, despite the short distance between La Fosse aux Pourceaux and Le Champ Bouton that defines Minéral. Unfurling from the glass with aromas of honeysuckle, pear, fresh hazelnut and iodine, it is a harmonious wine with an intensely chalky profile, laden with bright acids. More elegant than its 2017 rendition, Agrapart’s desire to capture freshness and precision is very well realized in this edition.HK$10,775.00 -
"A lifted nose of ripe citrus with almonds and brioche that is extremely open and inviting. The palate treads the line between richness and refreshment perfectly. Round & generous fruit with a decent slug of dosage is balanced out with a super-fresh finish and spray of mineral at the last. 100% Grand Cru Chardonnay here meaning this Blanc de Blancs really over-delivers at the price point. An excellent house pour. " - Will Trotman, Head of UK SalesHK$1,588.00 -
The Alexandre Bonnet Rose Riceys 2020 epitomises elegance and finesse from the esteemed Riceys appellation. Crafted meticulously in Burgundy’s renowned terroir, this Rose is a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness. Fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, it preserves the vibrant citrus and red berry notes, complemented by subtle floral undertones. Alexandre Bonnet’s dedication to sustainable viticulture is evident in every bottle, reflecting his family’s legacy of excellence. The 2020 vintage showcases a delicate balance between acidity and fruit intensity, offering a refreshing palate with a lingering, graceful finish. Perfect for pairing with seafood or light poultry dishes, the Alexandre Bonnet Rose Riceys 2020 is a testament to artisanal craftsmanship and the rich heritage of Riceys. Discover the sophistication and charm that make this Rose a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.
HK$1,745.00 -
If fine wines charm your palate, the exquisite Alfred Gratien Cuvee Paradis Rose 2008, hailing from the heart of Champagne in Epernay, France, is an undeniable choice. Crafted by the revered house of Alfred Gratien, it is the embodiment of their commitment to traditional champagne production methods, signifying their unwavering respect for artisanal winemaking.
A harmonious blend of select Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, this vintage rose injects an exceptional depth of flavour, balancing fruitiness and acidity with utmost finesse. The bottle fermentation and limited production, coupled with an 11-year maturation period, refine its intricate palate and structure.
Bearing a radiant salmon hue, Alfred Gratien Cuvee Paradis Rose 2008 offers an enchanting bouquet of wild strawberry and cherry, punctuated by subtle spice notes. With a hint of minerality on the palate, this wine pairs exquisitely with shellfish or fine cured meats, rendering a memorable gastronomic experience.
HK$3,190.00 -
Introducing the Amaury Beaufort Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature Base 2020 NV, a wine that showcases the finest traditions of winemaking. Born in the pristine vineyards of Champagne's Montagne de Reims region in France, this wine is meticulously crafted using a blend of Pinot Noir grapes, harvested solely from the prestigious 2020 vintage. A showcase of masterful precision, this Blanc de Noirs contains no added sugars, allowing the authentic and unadulterated purity of the fruit to break through in a symphony of delicate yet definitive profiles. The wine's creator, Amaury Beaufort, maintains a deeply personalised and artisanal approach to champagne production. This Base 2020 NV is a testament to his unwavering commitment towards quality and an outstanding representation of his lauded Brut Nature style. Moving with a pervasive grace and clarity from bottle to palate, every sip of Amaury Beaufort Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature Base 2020 NV is synonymous with the true essence of opulent viticulture.
HK$3,750.00 -
(6x75cl) 2017The Andre Beaufort Ambonnay Grand Cru 2017 epitomises Burgundy's finest Pinot Noir craftsmanship. Nestled in the prestigious Ambonnay Grand Cru appellation, this vintage benefits from meticulously vineyard practices on limestone-rich soils, ensuring exceptional terroir expression. Andre Beaufort, renowned for his commitment to sustainable viticulture, employs traditional hand harvesting and selective grape sorting to guarantee only the highest quality fruit. Fermentation takes place in a blend of stainless steel and French oak barrels, allowing the wine to develop nuanced complexity while preserving its elegant structure. The 2017 vintage unveils an intricate bouquet of ripe red berries, subtle floral notes, and earthy undertones, leading to a harmonious palate characterised by silky tannins and a lingering, refined finish. Ideal for both immediate enjoyment and extended cellaring, the Andre Beaufort Ambonnay Grand Cru 2017 stands as a testament to artisanal excellence and the enduring legacy of its esteemed producer.
HK$4,545.00 -
(6x75cl) 2019Andre Beaufort Ambonnay Grand Cru 2019 is a quintessential expression of terroir from the esteemed Ambonnay Grand Cru appellation in the Côte de Nuits, Burgundy. Crafted by the renowned André Beaufort, this Pinot Noir showcases meticulous vineyard management, with grapes hand-harvested from biodynamically cultivated vines. Fermented in traditional oak barrels to preserve purity and elegance, the wine undergoes a carefully monitored ageing process, resulting in exceptional complexity and finesse. On the nose, it reveals nuanced aromas of red cherries, violets, and subtle spice, while the palate is impeccably balanced with vibrant acidity, fine tannins, and a lingering finish. The 2019 vintage benefits from a perfect growing season, ensuring optimal ripeness and depth. Esteemed by critics and aficionados alike, Andre Beaufort Ambonnay Grand Cru 2019 epitomises the artistry and heritage of Grand Cru Burgundy, making it a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.
HK$4,655.00 -
(6x75cl) 2017Andre Beaufort Polisy Brut Millésime 2017 is a distinguished example of Burgundian excellence. Crafted in the heart of Polisy, Yonne, this vintage sparkling wine embodies the meticulous méthode traditionnelle. Andre Beaufort, a revered family producer with decades of heritage, selects hand-harvested Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes from meticulously maintained vineyards. The wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, followed by an extended lees aging period, which enhances its complexity and finesse. The 2017 millésime showcases a vibrant golden hue, delicate perlage, and a bouquet of citrus, white flowers, and toasted brioche. On the palate, it delivers a harmonious balance of freshness and depth, with a creamy texture and a lingering, elegant finish. Ideal for celebratory occasions or as a refined aperitif, the Andre Beaufort Polisy Brut Millesime 2017 exemplifies the pinnacle of fine sparkling wines.
HK$3,925.00 -
(6x75cl) NVExperience the exquisite elegance of Andre Beaufort Polisy Brut Reserve NV, a distinguished non-vintage Champagne crafted in the heart of the Côte des Blancs region. Andre Beaufort, renowned for his commitment to terroir-driven expressions, meticulously selects premier Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes from his esteemed vineyards in Polisy. Employing the traditional méthode champenoise, the wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, followed by an extended aging period on lees, which imparts a rich complexity and fine mousse. The Polisy Brut Reserve NV presents a brilliant pale gold hue, unveiling aromas of white citrus, brioche, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, it delivers a harmonious balance of crisp acidity and creamy texture, culminating in a persistent, elegant finish. Ideal for celebrating special occasions or pairing with refined cuisine, this Champagne exemplifies Andre Beaufort’s dedication to quality and sophistication. Discover the timeless allure of Andre Beaufort Polisy Brut Reserve NV and elevate your fine wine collection.
HK$5,430.00 -
Vinous (94)
The NV Brut Grand Cru Classe 1911 is best described as a multi-vintage wine, composed of 50% 1996 and 25% each 1995 and 1997. I have had the 1911 at least four times over the last few months and never been anything less than deeply impressed. A richly-textured, expansive Champagne, the 1911 bursts from the glass with expressive layers of perfumed Pinot fruit. The wine possesses stunning depth, clarity and precision in an utterly engaging style, with never-ending waves of fruit that caress the palate from start to finish. Precise chalky notes frame a sublime finish. Simply put this is remarkable juice, and one of the best relative values readers will find in Champagne. The 1911 is 100% Pinot Noir made from various lieu-dits in Bouzy. Disgorged September 7, 2009.HK$4,000.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
This single-vineyard NV Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Chouilly Brut Les Aventures assembles Chardonnay from two vintages: 2002 and 2006. Twenty-two percent of the wine was vinified in oak, and it was bottled in September 2007. Disgorged in January 2018 with less than three grams per liter of dosage, this intensely golden-yellow colored cuvée indicates lovely maturity, with iodine purity and freshness on the deep and complex nose. There are floral notes as well as dried fruit, brioche, honey and almond flavors. Dry, fine and complex on the palate, this is a highly characterful, structured, very pure and persistently salty Chouilly that has gained a lot of secondary flavors and layers over the years on the lees! It's a fabulously vinous and vital but also matured wine with very fine bubbles and great terroir expression. It's a really great Champagne from Chouilly, and the best is to enjoy it with food, white meat perhaps with lots of morels. The finish is immense yet pure, fresh, structured and stunningly aromatic. Tasted April 2018. There are some gorgeous cuvées to discover this year from the brother-sister team of Antoine and Anne Malssagne at Domaine AR Lenoble in Damery, Marne Valley. Especially exciting are the grand cru wines from Chouilly (Côte des Blancs), namely the 2008 Blanc de Blancs (which combines richness with finesse) and the non-vintaged single vineyard Blanc de Blancs Les Aventures that pairs its creamy richness and intensity with iodine purity and terroir-driven freshness. The recent release blends 2002 and 2006 and is simply terrific! However, export director Christian Holthausen is very excited about two new cuvées from the new "mag" edition—the Brut Intense "mag 14" and the Chouilly Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut "mag 14." Both of the "mag 14" wines are based on the 2014 harvest, complemented by reserve wines from a réservé perpétuelle. The réservés perpétuelles were started in 2001 (100% Chardonnay from Chouilly) and 2002 (Chardonnay from Chouilly and Pinot Noir from Bisseuil). Initially, they were kept in stainless steel tanks, then in small 250-liter barrels and finally in 5,000-liter wooden vats, reports Holthausen. In 2010, Antoine Malssagne removed a portion from both réserves perpétuelles, which then filled into magnums and kept them with 1.5 bar of pressure under natural corks for four years. Each bottle was subsequently uncorked by hand and the wines blended with the two "mag 14" bottlings, both of which are based 60% on the 2014 harvest and 40% on reserve wines. The final cuvées were stored in the cellar in early 2015 and disgorged after three years. "Climate change is a reality," Antoine Malassagne is quoted in the corresponding press release. "The challenge for the future is to be able to bring as much freshness as possible to our reserve wines. At the end of each harvest, we observe that acidity levels are much lower than they used to be. Reserve wines now need to add complexity and richness but also freshness." In a separate email to me, Holthausen said, "Keeping the reserve wines in magnums under natural cork under 1.5 bar of pressure is like a 'mini' secondary fermentation, so the reserve wines gain some autolytic character, but that's not the point." He went on to explain, "The jumping point is to keep the reserve wines fresh as long as possible. We used to need rich, heavy reserve wines in Champagne 20 years ago. However, today we need reserve wines with freshness since our base wines keep having lower acidity levels and higher pH levels year after year." In fact, 2018 will be their sixth-earliest harvest on record, according to Holthausen. "Climate change is shockingly real, and the 'mag' concept is our way of making even better wines in the face of climate change." The "mag" edition will be continued next year with the Brut Intense "mag15," the NV Chouilly Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs "mag 15" and the NV Brut Nature Dosage Zéro "mag14." The NV Terroirs Chouilly-Bisseuil Rosé "mag14" will be released in 2020.HK$805.00 -
(6x75cl) NVWine Advocate (95)
This single-vineyard NV Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Chouilly Brut Les Aventures assembles Chardonnay from two vintages: 2002 and 2006. Twenty-two percent of the wine was vinified in oak, and it was bottled in September 2007. Disgorged in January 2018 with less than three grams per liter of dosage, this intensely golden-yellow colored cuvée indicates lovely maturity, with iodine purity and freshness on the deep and complex nose. There are floral notes as well as dried fruit, brioche, honey and almond flavors. Dry, fine and complex on the palate, this is a highly characterful, structured, very pure and persistently salty Chouilly that has gained a lot of secondary flavors and layers over the years on the lees! It's a fabulously vinous and vital but also matured wine with very fine bubbles and great terroir expression. It's a really great Champagne from Chouilly, and the best is to enjoy it with food, white meat perhaps with lots of morels. The finish is immense yet pure, fresh, structured and stunningly aromatic. Tasted April 2018. There are some gorgeous cuvées to discover this year from the brother-sister team of Antoine and Anne Malssagne at Domaine AR Lenoble in Damery, Marne Valley. Especially exciting are the grand cru wines from Chouilly (Côte des Blancs), namely the 2008 Blanc de Blancs (which combines richness with finesse) and the non-vintaged single vineyard Blanc de Blancs Les Aventures that pairs its creamy richness and intensity with iodine purity and terroir-driven freshness. The recent release blends 2002 and 2006 and is simply terrific! However, export director Christian Holthausen is very excited about two new cuvées from the new "mag" edition—the Brut Intense "mag 14" and the Chouilly Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut "mag 14." Both of the "mag 14" wines are based on the 2014 harvest, complemented by reserve wines from a réservé perpétuelle. The réservés perpétuelles were started in 2001 (100% Chardonnay from Chouilly) and 2002 (Chardonnay from Chouilly and Pinot Noir from Bisseuil). Initially, they were kept in stainless steel tanks, then in small 250-liter barrels and finally in 5,000-liter wooden vats, reports Holthausen. In 2010, Antoine Malssagne removed a portion from both réserves perpétuelles, which then filled into magnums and kept them with 1.5 bar of pressure under natural corks for four years. Each bottle was subsequently uncorked by hand and the wines blended with the two "mag 14" bottlings, both of which are based 60% on the 2014 harvest and 40% on reserve wines. The final cuvées were stored in the cellar in early 2015 and disgorged after three years. "Climate change is a reality," Antoine Malassagne is quoted in the corresponding press release. "The challenge for the future is to be able to bring as much freshness as possible to our reserve wines. At the end of each harvest, we observe that acidity levels are much lower than they used to be. Reserve wines now need to add complexity and richness but also freshness." In a separate email to me, Holthausen said, "Keeping the reserve wines in magnums under natural cork under 1.5 bar of pressure is like a 'mini' secondary fermentation, so the reserve wines gain some autolytic character, but that's not the point." He went on to explain, "The jumping point is to keep the reserve wines fresh as long as possible. We used to need rich, heavy reserve wines in Champagne 20 years ago. However, today we need reserve wines with freshness since our base wines keep having lower acidity levels and higher pH levels year after year." In fact, 2018 will be their sixth-earliest harvest on record, according to Holthausen. "Climate change is shockingly real, and the 'mag' concept is our way of making even better wines in the face of climate change." The "mag" edition will be continued next year with the Brut Intense "mag15," the NV Chouilly Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs "mag 15" and the NV Brut Nature Dosage Zéro "mag14." The NV Terroirs Chouilly-Bisseuil Rosé "mag14" will be released in 2020.HK$4,780.00 -
(6x75cl) NVHK$3,445.00 -
HK$3,190.00 -
HK$15,700.00 -
HK$50,830.00 -
Jancis Robinson (17)
Very pale and delicate, tiny bead. Very appetising and fresh and directed. Sprightly and racy. Lovely texture. But not that long.HK$27,400.00 -
Decanter (95)
This is a three-way assemblage: three grape varieties – and equal percentage of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with 20% of Pinot Meunier – and a blend of 3 vintages, 2009, 2010 and 2012. The nose is full of flavours and rich with notes of white flowers and crème patissière. However, the palate is crisp, fresh and delicate with a lovely creamy texture. It is elegant, refined and very stylish (unlike the bottle!). It’s a pleasant combination of power and concentration blended with finesse and elegance. While the dosage is 9g/l, it feels much drier, more like a 5g/l and this probably due to the spinal cord of acidity.HK$4,730.00
