In the world of Champagne, the art lies not only in growing grapes, but also – perhaps above all – in knowing how to “blend” them like a mosaic. The Champagne Assemblage Extra Brut by Maison Daubanton & Fils is a perfect example of this. Here, the focus is not on the dominance of a single grape variety, but on the perfect harmony between three distinct elements that together create a sensory experience far greater than the sum of its parts. We are in Ville-sur-Arce, in the heart of the Côte des Bar. This southern part of Champagne is known for its rolling landscape and soils that hide an ancient secret: Kimmeridgian limestone. A unique terroir, rich in small marine fossils, which gives the wines a distinctive mineral tension. In this case, the blend is a timeless classic. Pinot Noir provides structure, power and the typical vinosity of the Côte des Bar. Pinot Meunier adds roundness and immediate fruit, while Chardonnay completes the picture with elegance, freshness and notes of white flowers. The vineyards, located in prime positions, benefit from exposure that ensures slow and steady ripening. The base wine is vinified 90% in stainless steel and 10% in oak barrels. This is followed by blending, with 70% from the current vintage and 30% reserve wines, before the wine undergoes bottle ageing on the lees for a period well beyond the minimum required. This extended rest in the cellar allows the bubbles to become extremely fine and the aromas to evolve into refined complexity. In the glass, it shows a bright straw yellow colour with a lively, persistent mousse. On the nose, it reveals notes of crisp apple, lemon zest and a delicate hint of freshly baked bread. On the palate, the attack is precise and vibrant. Freshness is the backbone, supported by a generous fruit core that makes the sip approachable. The finish is savoury, almost saline, leaving the palate perfectly clean.