Canard duchêne’s vintage wines are only made in standout years – and 2012 was one of the best of the decade. This wine blends roughly equal parts chardonnay and pinot noir from premier and grand cru villages, aged for over 8 years on the lees for depth and complexity. It opens with baked apple, brioche and almond, layered with lemon peel and a fine thread of salinity. The palate is rich yet precise, with creamy mousse and excellent length. A serious champagne for celebrations, seafood or white truffle risotto. Pair with lobster, roast chicken or comté.