There are two major types of Champagne houses, the larger well known, NM (Negociant Manipulant) and the smaller lesser known, RM (Recoltant Manipulant). On the very bottom of the label in tiny lettering, you might be able to decipher a very small “NM” or “RM”. The NM means the Champagne Negociant buys their fruit from other grape farmers to produce their Champagne, whereas RM, refers to a Grower Champagne house who is in full control of the product from the vineyards through the bottling. These small family run businesses often produce some of the best Champagne in France because of their ability to control the quality in every step of production.

Saint-Chamant has always been one of my favorite Grower Champagnes. They meticulously farm about 25 acres of mostly Chardonnay in the Grand Cru village of Chouilly, within the Cotes de Blancs. The 2005 vintage in Champagne was excellent and yielded grapes with high concentration of flavor and freshness brought by perfect acidity. This Champagne has been produced from 100% Chardonnay grapes and was aged on its lees until disgorgement in late 2013. There is usually about 5 grams of dosage added to his wines.

This Champagne is incredible both aromatically and on the palate. The color is a light straw yellow with small concentrated bubbles filling the glass. On the nose you will find aromas of dried lemon, brioche, yellow apple and a slight creaminess brought by extended contact with the lees. The palate is full and rich with flavors of dried pineapple, lemon zest, fresh yellow apple and a mineral driven finish that covers every inch of the palate. Do not drink this champagne too cold -- about 50 degrees would be perfect.  I like to personally drink champagne from an AP (all purpose) glass as opposed to a flute and I encourage you to try this at home.  This is a great grower champagne from a small producer.