Lancelot-Royer was one of our most exciting discoveries last year. Michel Chauvet and his son run this tiny house in Cramant, producing exquisite small-batch grower Champagne. All of their wines come from grapes they grow themselves, and their vineyards are 100% Chardonnay from exclusively Grand Cru plots. Everything here is done by hand, from harvesting and riddling to disgorging, dosing and labeling.
And the wine is as tasty as you’d expect from such an operation – we’ve just restocked on their popular “Cuvée des Chevaliers,” a non-vintage Brut that we think far outperforms its pricetag. After spending four years on the lees in the Chauvets’ 50 degree chalk cellars, they disgorged it for us earlier this year.
Champagnes from the Côtes des Blancs are known for their elegance and chiseled focus, and this cuvée does not disappoint. It’s rich and toasty, with a lovely nose of pear, apple and buttery croissants. The mouth is crisp and delicious with plenty of richness amid the energetic freshness. If you’ve got any entertaining in the next two months, this is a no brainer.
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Lancelot-Royer Champagne Grand Cru
“Chevaliers” Brut NV
bottle price: $58
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