Marie Copinet, Cuvée Alexandrine, Blanc de Blancs NV, $51

We have featured several Champagnes from Jacques Copinet in this club in the past.

Since then, the estate has passed into the hands of his daughter, Marie-Laure, and her husband Alexandre who is now the cellermaster. The winery remains definitely a family affair. The house was founded by Jacques and Brigette Copinet in 1975, in the tiny village of Montgenost in the Côte de Sézanne, which lies to the south of the Côte des Blancs almost like an extension of that region. Like its neighbor to the north, the soil in the Côte de Sézanne is mostly cretaceous chalk, and Chardonnay is the predominant grape grown, although about 30% is planted to Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Copinet uses no pesticides or herbicides in their vineyards, which are spread throughout a number of villages. Their Cuvée Alexandrine, named for Alexander’s grandmother, is 100% Chardonnay from 40-year-old vines grown on the chalky slopes of Montgenost. The wine is aged a minimum of ten months on the lees in large barrels, and at least 36 months in the bottle. Alexandrine is blended from three different vintages. The winery notes: one lends structure, the second finesse, and the third freshness. It is a complex and elegant Champagne, with a rich, creamy texture, fine bubbles and fresh, balancing acidity. With its aromas of citrus, almonds, and stone fruit, and toasty notes of brioche, it is delicious on its own, or paired with shellfish.