343. Champagne Jean Moutardier, Sélection Brut, NV (2006)

€16.50; 12%

A product of my July 2006 trip to Champagne with Mum – some of the best weather I’ve experienced (32-34°C, dry & clear skies). Drank this soon after drinking some Louis Roederer NV Champagne, and I’m pleased to say that I definitely prefer this. Mid-gold colour with a moderately-fine, light bead and mousse. Bead got finer over a couple of days, pressure-sealed. Fairly intense biscuit and yeast nose, with hints of cassis or cassis leaf on. Cream notes and even (?) some beefy notes in the background! Fruity, lemon and white-fruit-palate with crisp acidity, but balanced by the dosage. Could have a more elegant, finer bead, but quite full and fairly rich. Good, orangey, toasty length on the finish.