Armand de Brignac, Ace of Spades Blanc de Noirs A2, Champagne

This cuvée was launched last year and this is the second assemblage, hence the name. This 100% Pinot Noir is from the 2008, 2009 and 2010 vintages. The wine was disgorged on June 20 2016 and is the only cuvée to have the disgorgement date on the back label. It's a serious foody Champagne, and while it is still very tight, it has so many layers, with aromas of ripe peach, almond and some herbal hints. Very complex, yet elegant and harmonious, it has palate-tingling acidity with a very focussed finish and amazing depth. This is far too young to drink now, but has the potential to age for a decade and will stand up to many serious dishes.