Alfred Gratien Champagne Classic Brut NV 750ml

Alfred Gratien Champagne Classic Brut — Champagne, France NV

Alfred Gratien is one of Champagne's most principled and independent houses — still fermenting in small oak casks, still hand-riddling, still refusing shortcuts. Their Classic Brut is the house's calling card: a blend of 50% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir, and 25% Pinot Meunier, based on the 2015 harvest, crafted for depth, texture, and longevity. Both James Suckling and Wine Spectator awarded it 93 points. At $59.99, it is one of the most compelling values in serious Champagne.

The nose is moderately intense and complex: sweet pastry, biscuit, dried apple, orchard fruit, citrus, white flowers, and fresh butter. On the palate, the texture is silky and layered — ripe yellow peach, raspberry, chopped hazelnut, pickled ginger, and preserved lemon, all framed by chiseled acidity and a satiny mousse. A chalky minerality runs through the wine from start to finish. The finish is crisp, long (6–8 seconds), and beautifully balanced — with a pleasing sugar component that never tips into sweetness.

James Suckling 93 — "Fantastic NV Champagne with a fine, creamy texture of small barrels and a deep, layered palate... Tangy. Layered and powerful, yet fresh."

Wine Spectator 93 — "Finely meshed and mouthwatering, with a satiny mousse and creamy finish."

• Producer: Alfred Gratien, Épernay, Champagne, France
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Blend: 50% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir, 25% Pinot Meunier
• Base Vintage: 2015
• Style: Brut, Non-Vintage
• Vinification: Small oak cask fermentation, hand-riddled
• Size: 750ml
• Tasting Notes: Brioche, dried apple, orchard fruit, peach, raspberry, hazelnut, chalky mineral finish
• Cellar Potential: Drink now or hold
• Best Paired With: Oysters, roast chicken, aged Comté, smoked salmon, mushroom risotto

A dual 93-point Champagne from one of the region's most uncompromising houses — Alfred Gratien Classic Brut is the benchmark for what independent Champagne can be.