Although the Grande Marque Champagnes are the most famous, boutique-grower Champagnes can deliver a depth, texture, and personality that are unmatched in terms of price-to-quality ratio. André Clouet’s exquisite tête de cuvée is one of the best examples. With only 1,911 bottles produced each year, it rivals major producers’ top wines at a fraction of the price.
- The Champagne is derived from 100 percent Pinot Noir from the Grand Cru vineyards of Bouzy.
- The most recent release contains the vintages of 2002 (50 percent), 1997 (25 percent), and 1995 (25 percent).
- Complex aromas leap from the glass: freshly baked brioche, red currant, dried pineapple, orange peel, preserved lemon, and white flowers.
André Clouet, imported by Sacred Thirst Selections, sacredthirstselections.com ($74)