Fresne Ducret, 'Les Nouveaux Explorateurs' Premier Cru Champagne NV

The Fresne Ducret NV has that perfect mixture of ripe fruit, rich, brioche-like yeastiness and crisp but balanced acidity. The freshness makes it remarkably more-ish but it still has the character to stand up to food - smoked salmon or potted shrimp would definitely fit the bill.

The Fresne family have been growing grapes in Champagne for 7 generations. Their vines are in the 1er Cru village of Ville-Dommange, near Reims, and today it is Pierre Fresne who oversees the whole operation - from vineyard management through to the dosage, riddling and final corking. The estate has recently received organic certification.

The resulting Champagnes are a testament to the family's meticulous production methods and the quality of the domaine's Premier Cru terroir. What's more, they demonstrate the excellent value offered by the best 'Grower' Champagnes (Champagnes made from grapes grown by the producers themselves rather than bought in from other vineyards).

It is completely delicious drinking now, but will age well over the next few years if you want to hang on to it.

N.B. This is a pre-shipment offer closing on Monday 2nd November. The Champagne will be arriving in the UK in early December. As soon as it arrives I'll give you a heads up regarding delivery.

"Pale gold. Fine-beaded mousse. Brioche and lemon sponge-cake aromas. Broad, mouthfilling and gloriously complete, a tapestry of baked pear and lemon cream and warm, just-toasted nuttiness. A touch of chamomile, meadow sweet. This is a champagne with that magic combination of weight and elegance. Racy and fine, yet with presence and power. Graceful, with or without food." - 17.5 points, Tamlyn Currin, www.jancisrobinson.com