567. Antech, Crémant de Limoux Cuvée Eugénie Brut, 2005

£??; 12%

From my Hors Concours prize case, this was an excellent example of the quality Crémant de Limoux can achieve, and a good alternative to Champagne – albeit in a slightly soft style. A nice way to close-out book 3! Medium lemon colour, with a persistent, medium-fine bead. Toasty-led aromatics with sweet, ripe apples and apricot notes – it uses its Southern French climate to good effect in ripe flavours. Distinctly creamy edge to a sweet apple and leesy palate. Toasty finish. Delicate mousse. Acidity is a bit over medium, to give an almost off-dry flavour. Medium length. Interesting to note that Cuvée Eugénie is vintage. Interested to seek out some of the Antech family’s NV cuvées.