The NV Brut Grande Cuvee, 100% Pinot Noir,, is a very pretty and affordable Champagne from Moutard. Creamy and ample in the glass, with lovely energy, the Grande Cuvee offers up plum, lemon confit, mint and floral notes. Although not suer-complex, the Grand Cuvee is tasty, stylish and very easy to like. The warm embrace of the Cote des Bar is very much on display.

Tropical hints of papaya and passion fruit pâte de fruit are enlivened by bright and tangy acidity, layered on the lively bead with flavors of Gala apple, blanched almond and fresh ginger. Well-knit and vibrant, with a sleek, minerally finish. Disgorged January 2015. Drink now through 2018. 25,000 cases made.

I was quite taken with the wines I tasted from Moutard this year. The NV Brut Grande Cuvee (Pinot Noir) emerges from the glass with high-toned notes of Mirabelle plums, kirsch, crushed flowers and sweet herbs. There is an exotic quality to the Grande Cuvee that is totally beguiling. Intensely aromatic and layered through to the finish, the Grande Cuvee impresses for its delicate, feminine personality and overall balance.