Here is a champagne from deep in the Marne in tiny Aÿ, located to the east of Épernay.  This is a 90% Pinot Noir based champagne with 10% Chardonnay, but it’s 100% Grand Cru and grown on the 7.3 ha of land owned by the house.

Gatinois is a very small producer that has been in business since 1696 and spanned the lifetimes of 12 generations of descendants.  Much of the wine they produce is sold to larger houses, but since the 1990s, the current owner, Pierre Cheval has been producing more of his own champagnes.

This Brut Tradition NV version has a gorgeous pale gold hue with a deep onion skin overlay allowing it to have tinge of pink in some lights.  The persistent mousse and beading is impressive.

The nose shows aromas of softly sweet, sugary Danish with crushed rocks and Meyer lemon juice while the palate is dry with medium plus acidity and elegant alcohol.  The flavours offer Macintosh apple, soft lemon, more Danish and pebbles.

A delicious, delicate, well constructed and balanced champagne.  With its creamy mouth feel and good finish, this is WSET Very Good.  Drink as often as possible.