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Drink it now or cellar for 10 years. No need to decant. This is a ‘blanc de noirs’ Champagne, crafted from 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay. It comes from the village of Ambonnay, one of the most distinguished areas for Pinot Noir in the Champagne region. It opens with ripe scents of apple, pear, and red berries, with hints of sourdough and yeast. Like many of the domaines in Champagne, R.H. Coutier is a family business, run by René Coutier. His father was the first winemaker to plant Chardonnay in Ambonnay, which agrees well with the region’s rich clayish soils. As they cultivate just 9 hectares of vineyards, and sell up to 80% of their grapes to a local cooperative, each Coutier vintage is a collector’s item. In terms of taste, this is a low-dosage Champagne, allowing the fresh and wiry acidity to shine through. It is rich and moussey on the tongue, with dancing flavours of orchard fruits, cream, blackberries, toasted nuts, and lemongrass. On the long finish, there are clear notes of minerality and hints of brioche. With time in the cellar, it can also develop tertiary notes of dried fruit. This is a great wine for pairing with pastries, delicate fish, or soft cheese.