2018 Nicolas Maillart "Mont Martin" 1er Cru Blanc de Noirs Champagne

The 2018 Nicolas Maillart "Mont Martin" 1er Cru Blanc de Noirs Champagne is made exclusively from the Meunier grape which is indigenous to Champagne and is entirely barrel fermented. It is a statement on the class that this often-overlooked variety is capable of and comes exclusively from the Mont Martin parcel in Villers-Allerand where a meter of clay soil lays on top of the chalk. It is dosed at just 2g/l of sugar, and even with that low dosage is among the richest champagnes I have ever tasted. It has subtle toast and big plummy ripeness on the nose, with full body that is a great contrast to the tight bead of bubbles. This is a fantastic partner for foie gras, or other pâté as the richness of the wine can stand up to the big flavors, while it is dry enough to cut the fat. We only received four cases! -Gary Westby, K&L