Say Champagne and you instantly think party. A complex and versatile wine, most are produced by large Maisons that control vast expanses of vineyards and produce millions of bottles each year. But for true enthusiasts, the challenge is above all to discover goodies from the cellars of small vignerons who produce limited quantities of high-quality wine. Passionate producers who are often tied to their terroir and their history, devoting great care to the production of their wines. A fine example of this is Gratiot & Cie, which offers here the Champagne Almanach No. 2 Boisé. A small vigneron located in the Marne Valley, it is made from a blend of Pinot Meunier in large part (69%) and Chardonnay (31%). Gratiot & Cie's vineyards are located at an altitude of 100/165 metres above sea level. The soil here is chalky, with a good presence of clay, limestone and sand. Harvesting is done manually at the beginning of September. Vinification takes place partly in stainless steel tanks and partly in barriques. Prior to bottling for frothing, a cuvée is made from a majority of vintage wines, to which is added approximately 22% reserve wine from previous vintages. For the delicate phase of maturation on the lees, approximately 3 years are finally required. Golden yellow in colour. The nose shows notes of yellow berry fruit, such as peach, and quince. Then there are light floral notes of jasmine, hints of yeast and bread crust and, on the finish, a slight spiciness with pleasant, delicate oxidative notes. In the mouth, it is soft and fresh, with fruity and citrus notes, hints of yeast and delicate toasted notes. Excellent persistence and balance. Almanach No. 2 Boisé from Gratiot & Cie is a versatile wine, perfect with dishes of good complexity. Excellent with fatty fish, shellfish and even white meat.