Michael Edwards picks the following 3 of our growers' champagnes
Benoit Lahaye, Brut Essentiel NV (4 star)
Mainly grand cru Pinot Noir. Vivid gold with a hint of pink at rim. Seductive nose of cherries and raspberries; sumptuous palate of Bouzy richness; check of minerality. Dosage 6g/l
Drink: 2011-2013. Alc: 12%
Jérôme Prévost, La Closerie Les Béguines, Brut Extra-Brut NV (4 star)
Though officially a non-vintage, this is always the wine of a single year. The most exotic Meunier in Champagne. Burnished gold; toasty, spicy aromas; tastes like brioche straight from the oven. Masterly use of oak.
Drink: 2011-2013. Alc: 12%
Larmandier-Bernier Terre de Vertus Premier Cru, Non-Dosé (4 star)
A 2006 in all but name. Fine scents of nature, linden, white flowers. Brist Chardonnay drive, perfectly balanced.
Drink: 2011-2013. Alc: 12%