Palmer & Co Blanc de Noirs Brut NV Champagne, France 75cl (Gift Box)

Champagne Palmer & Co was founded in Reims in 1947 by a group of growers and draws on more than 200 hectares of Grand and Premier Cru vineyards, many in the Montagne de Reims. It has built a quiet reputation for finesse and consistency across its range rather than for flashy marketing.

Blanc de Noirs is made only from the black grapes of Champagne, Pinot Noir and Meunier, giving more depth and fruit than a lighter Blanc de Blancs. Palmer draws on crus across the Montagne de Reims, the Marne Valley and the Côte des Bars, with older reserve wines adding complexity and continuity to the blend.

As a non-vintage cuvée, it is blended across several years to hold a consistent house style. Extended ageing on the lees before release adds texture and a fine, persistent mousse, along with the gentle bready note that comes with time in the cellar.

Expect peach and apricot fruit lifted by citrus and a hint of gooseberry, with a fresh, structured palate and a long finish. It carries a 91-point score and balances the richness of the black grapes with real freshness.

Presented in a gift box, this is a versatile, food-friendly Champagne for celebrations or a considered present. Its weight of fruit makes it a good choice at the table as well as the aperitif hour, so serve it with roast poultry, richer fish and creamy cheeses. Well chilled, it is a fine way to open an evening or to mark a small occasion in style.