Pascal Doquet Champagne Arpege 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut (2015) Base 750ml

Doquet is one of the pioneers of natural farming in Champagne. He works about 12 hectares, primarily in the Côte des Blancs, and his parcels are green with permanent cover crop and have all been certified organic since 2010.  He has vines in Vertus, Mont Aimé, Villeneuve and Mesnil-sur-Oger. Vinified in enamel lined tanks, the wines offer stunning expressions of chardonnay on chalk. They are energetic, deep and detailed.

For “Arpège”, the chardonnay comes from Vertus, Villeneuve and Mont Aimé. There is 35% perpetual reserve wine started in 2012 in the blend, preserved in enamel tanks to maintain freshness. And the flinty-silex soils from the Mont Aimé lend smokiness and depth to the structure. 

The salt-licked citrus quality of this cuvée makes it my perfect pairing for oysters and caviar.