Champagne Paul Launois may be a new name in the scheme of things in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, but their history in the village go back 3 generations having made wine at the local co-op after selling most of their fruit to Krug and Salon from their 16 acres of vines in one of the greatest terroirs on earth.

Formerly known as Jean-Pierre Lunois, this change came about when current custodians Julian and Sarah became part of the vanguardist Champagne movement that has seen a new approach and ideas to what high quality Champagne can be.

Pale straw with a green tinge, the nose is of apples and fresh citrus nuanced with yellow flowers and biscuity notes. Precise citrus flecked acidity frame up a palate of pomaceous fruit and almond meal backed by an energetic and nervy core of chalky minerality.

This is a stunning Champagne from a fearless producer that is not overawed by the storied history of their appellate or their neighbours at a fraction of their price.