First, and without a doubt in the best buy category, is the Henriot Brut Souverain. What impressed me is the precision, detail and interplay of citrus, floral and bready aromatics and flavors. Not really a broadly textured wine, it still has a certain richness about it. The bright acidity gives it a fresh lively character and great lift. It is a very classy Champagne for $35.00. It was fabulous with the salmon dip made by Bianchini’s Market on Alpine road in Portola Valley.

Second, if you want to move up the ladder price wise, the 2002 Camille Saves Grand Cru Brut  is superb and, given such high quality at $70.00, a great value. The 2002 vintage is considered the finest since ’96 and it certainly shows here. The cuvee is 75% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay from their own vineyards in Bouzy. The flavors are an exotic combination of red fruit, citrus, mineral, and floral characteristics along with a touch of white chocolate. Although full-bodied and richly textured, the wine shows great finesse and elegance.

Gary M., Beltramo’s Wine Consultant