Lete-Vautrain Champagne Brut Cote 204 NV

This is a Champagne from a small producer with vineyards based around the town of Ch Thierry and neighbouring village Essomes-sur-Marne. They farm from only 8 hectares. This is a combination of the lighter variety Pinot Meunier, topped up with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Champagne is as much about soil as sparkle. The three classic varieties of the region - Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay - each finds its own favoured spot to flourish. 

Pinot Meunier is particularly happy on the limestone slopes of the Marne Valley, where you’ll find the 8 neat hectares of the Lété-Vautrain vineyard (established by the husband-and-wife team whose surnames grace the label). So it’s no surprise that fruity Meunier makes up 50% of the blend of the Brut 204, with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay splitting the other half. 

It’s a very happy combo, with layers of soft, succulent apples, peaches and apricots held up on an elegant shard of zesty acidity. The finish is ripe and round with gentle dried-fruit hints. A delicious, easy-drinking aperitif with enough complexity to keep you interested right through to the last glass. Vegan-friendly too!