Champagne Diebolt-Vallois Brut Tradition

(100% Pinot Meunier, 90% from 2010 and the rest from 2009; 5 g/l dosage): Light gold. Deeply pitched orange marmalade and poached pear aromas are lifted by smoky minerals and white flowers. Supple and open-knit, offering juicy tangerine and Anjou pear flavors along with a refreshingly bitter quinine element. Closes on a spicy note, with repeating floral character and a hint of toasty lees.