Awards/Ratings

General cuvée high scores from critics (examples: Essi Avellan MW 95; Falstaff 93; James Suckling 92; Wine & Spirits/Wine Spectator/Decanter ~92). Vintage 1998 tasting notes mention mature citrus, brioche and hazelnut with a score in mid-80s in independent tasting (example tasting 85p)

Tasting Note

Fresh citrus, white flowers and almonds with brioche, hazelnut and chalky minerality; silky mousse, creamy mid-palate and long, brisk acidic finish (matured nutty notes on older 1998 bottles).

Food Pairing

Western: oysters, lobster, smoked salmon, crab cakes, aged Gouda, goat cheese. Asian: sushi/sashimi, tempura, Thai fish curries, dim sum.

Production Method

Méthode traditionnelle (bottle fermentation), 100% Chardonnay; extended lees ageing (bottle ~5 years; magnum longer) with a low dosage around 6–7 g/L.

Vineyard Info

Champagne Palmer & Co, founded 1947 by seven grower-families; owns extensive Premier/Grand Cru holdings in Montagne de Reims and produces benchmark Chardonnay-led cuvées.