It’s important to note that while Champagne José Michel is primarily known for making fruit-forward and friendly, world-class champagne based in Pinot Meunier, he (and now his grandson) has been working with Chardonnay from calcareous soils, only about 20-30% of vineyard plantings in the area for well over 60 years. One can surmise that even though this particular cuvée may be a newer one for this house, this wine's chalky minerality, finesse, depth, and nerve shine from those decades of work and attention to detail. Citrus fruits like lemon and a hint of grapefruit lead, with a slight lean toward rich lemon brioche/lemon bar and white fruit aromas. These initial impressions are balanced with breezy, ocean-esque feels in oyster shells and sea spray notes, all wrapped in an intensely impressive package that highlights the best of single- vintage, grower-producer blanc de blancs.