Charlie Herring, The Bookkeeper 2019

Place: Kent, England

Grape: Chardonnay

Vibe: ArtHouse

Chardo from these mysterious and mystical walled vineyards. On lees for a whopping 68 months before being disgorged in February 2026, no dosage. A great vintage that gave full ripeness while keeping the ABV low. This is really pretty, not as showy or bombastic as some longer elevage champagnes, but more nuanced. The bubbles are fine and delicate, with gorgeous orchard fruit and a wonderfully gunflint, smoky nose. There's such tension and minerality here that make this very captivating. Tim describes this release as more arthouse than blockbuster, exactly what I search for in the glass. ABV: 11%