Grapes: 100% Chardonnay

Adrien Dhondt has become one of the most exciting names in grower Champagne, transforming his family's small domaine into a producer with a devoted international following. His fascination with individual vineyards has led to a collection of tiny-production Champagnes that offer a wonderfully detailed look at the Côte des Blancs. For this bottling, the spotlight falls on Cramant, a Grand Cru village celebrated for Chardonnay that combines elegance, depth and an almost effortless charm.

The 2022 comes from vineyards in Cramant, where the generous growing season gave Dhondt plenty of ripe fruit to work with. His measured approach in the cellar allows the wine to develop texture and complexity without losing its sense of place. There's a lovely contrast here between the natural richness of the vintage and the freshness that makes Chardonnay from this part of Champagne so compelling.

Ripe pear, lemon and golden apple lead into white flowers, toasted almond and a little freshly baked brioche. The palate has a wonderfully silky quality, with delicate bubbles and bright acidity keeping everything beautifully balanced. A subtle chalky note emerges through the long, savory finish. This is Champagne with enough substance to take you through dinner, particularly with scallops, lobster, roast turbot or a very good roast chicken.