2013 ALFRED GRATIEN CHAMPAGNE BRUT CUVEE PARADIS 750ML

The magnificent deep robe is delicately effervescent with rising vertical columns of tiny elegant bubbles that are reminiscent of lace. The initial nose has discreet yet rich aromas of ladyfinger biscuit grapefruit orange peel and almond. These are followed by a more exotic note of passion fruit pineapple lime silver ragwort and seaweed. Later still the tantalising fragrance of brioche emerges. This is a complex highly original set of aromas. The attack on the palate is delicate and develops gently. The bubbles seem to melt within the body of the wine which is robust and supported by the sugar content attains a comfortingly creamy texture that is particularly enjoyable almost reminiscent of umami. Throughout the tasting the acidity heightens culminating in the finish which is very long (over 10 seconds) and delivers a burst of intense flavours: acidity sweetness and salinity. It closes with a chalky minerality with aromas of honey and brioche lingering on the palate.