TysonStelzer.com

Eric Rodez Cuvée Blanc de Noirs

Eric Rodez has again crafted a definitive blanc de noirs, and one of the finest at its price anywhere in Champagne. The enticing purity of Ambonnay pinot noir on show is something to behold, encapsulating the personality of the village in voluptuous black cherries, cherry kernel, red apples and mixed spice. Malic acidity is cleverly utilised to pull the tail into taut, refined definition, emphasising the pronounced salty chalk minerality of the Rodez vineyards. $78 at French Wine Centre.