Alfred Gratien, Champagne Brut, Epernay, France

Tasting Note: This champagne tastes exactly the way the best of champagnes should.

It is golden-yellow in color with a nose yeast-infused caramel, lightly-browned toast, green apple and peach stone fruit with a spritz of lemon zest.

Aromas on the nose continue to the palate accompanied by high acidity which expresses itself through to the back of your mouth with a tart, chalky, citrusy finish.

A purposeful and functional acidity in this wine is more refreshing than overwhelming showing balance.

With tiny tight bubbles that are full of life this brut sparkler shows background complexity and expresses the subtle benefits of having been aged in oak which include more depth of flavor and an understated vanilla back.

Each year on my birthday I procure a bottle of champagne that costs more than my age, and this champagne on my 40th birthday reminds me of youth and vitality tempered by age and experience.

Ching – ching.