Gerard Bertrand Code Rouge Blanc de Blancs Brut Eternel NV Cremant de Limoux, Languedoc, France 75cl

Gerard Bertrand is one of the Languedoc’s most recognisable names, a former rugby captain turned winemaker who champions the region’s diversity and its move towards biodynamic farming. Code Rouge is his dedicated sparkling range, made in Limoux in the far south of France.

This Blanc de Blancs brings together Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc, both white grapes, made by the traditional method with a second fermentation in bottle. Limoux has a strong claim to be the birthplace of sparkling wine in France, with a documented history stretching back to the sixteenth century, and that heritage sits behind every bottle of this cuvee, which pairs Chardonnay’s citrus lift with the orchard-fruit roundness of Chenin Blanc.

As a non-vintage blend, it is assembled to a consistent house style rather than the mark of a single year, drawing on the cool nights and high vineyards around Limoux to keep freshness and balance from release to release. The aim is a reliably elegant fizz you can open any time.

Expect a fine, steady bead and aromas of green apple, citrus and a subtle note of brioche from time on the lees. The palate is crisp and dry, clean and refreshing, with a bright, gently creamy finish. Serve well chilled, in a tulip glass to concentrate the aromatics.

This is an approachable, well-made alternative to Champagne at a friendlier price. Blanc de Blancs simply means it is made only from white grapes, giving a lighter, more citrus-driven style than a Champagne built on red varieties. Pour it as an aperitif, with light seafood, sushi or canapes, or to mark an occasion when you want something with genuine finesse in the glass without the grande marque outlay.