• France, Champagne, Clos de l'Abbaye
• Extra Brut
• 100% Chardonnay
• Alc.: 12% by volume
• Bottle Size: 750ml

Champagne Doyard Clos de l'Abbaye Extra Brut 2018 is a single-vineyard Blanc de Blancs produced from Chardonnay grown in a tiny walled vineyard directly behind the Doyard estate in Vertus, in the Côte des Blancs.

Pear, white peach and citrus are joined by apricot, white flowers, toasted almond and subtle brioche, with smoky and chalky mineral notes developing as the wine opens. The palate is concentrated yet precise, with a fine mousse, vibrant acidity and a long, dry finish marked by citrus, stone fruit and chalk.

The Chardonnay vines were planted in 1956, and the wine is fermented in older Burgundy barrels using native yeasts, without malolactic fermentation. Extended lees aging brings texture and complexity, while the very low dosage of 2 g/L keeps the wine focused and allows the character of the vineyard to remain clearly expressed.

I find Clos de l'Abbaye particularly compelling because it combines the depth and vinous character of a serious white Burgundy with the freshness, chalk and energy of Champagne. There is richness here, but it is carried by excellent acidity and a very precise mineral finish. It is already expressive, although it has the structure to continue developing beautifully in bottle.

Food Pairing: Pair with oysters, scallops, lobster, crab, caviar, turbot, sole with beurre blanc, roast chicken, or aged Comté.

Serve around 48–52°F. Allow a few minutes in the glass rather than serving it excessively cold, as the wine becomes much more expressive as it opens.