Delamotte, Champagne (France) Blanc de Blancs NV ($88)

This brand flies somewhat under the radar by comparison to the big Champagne houses, and that’s usually good for the pocketbook. Though not particularly inexpensive, there is a lot of bang for the buck here. It’s a classy presentation, light on its feet without being light in aromatic development or flavor complexity. Low dosage and about 10% reserve wines in the cuvée keep it on the fresh side, making for a festive aperitif or a beautiful seafood partner. Pro tip: The winery recommends a regular wine glass as opposed to a narrow flute, and I concur — you will want to get at all the aromatics here. 100% Chardonnay.
93 Rich Cook