Black Chalk, Paragon, Hampshire, England, United Kingdom 2020

The vintage 2020 bears witness to the completion of Black Chalk's winery and lead to the release of two new premium releases. The 'Paragon' Blanc de Blancs was bottled without fining or malolactic fermentation, the base wine was aged partially (46%) in new Tonnellerie Rousseau oak barrels, followed by 26 months on lees and a further six month under cork after disgorgement. A mineral, smoky nose of petrol, golden apple peel and toast. Richly textured on the palate, the 8.8g/l of acidity was rounded off by the honeyed mousse and sweet spices. Soft-boned with ripe melon and stone fruits; roasted nuts to finish. Only 3,535 bottles were made.