rating B+

standout serious but very drinkable

about founded in 1897 by a cooper, Ernest Cazals, from the south of France. Since his grandson Claude died in 1996, daughter Delphine has run the winery. Viticulture is sustainable. Based in Le Mesnil, the style is classic Côte des Blancs, though with a bit more weight.

wines tasted

“Cuvée Vive” NV ($72)

100% Chardonnay. Five years lees ageing, 3g/l dosage. There’s a light touch to the wine which makes it extremely approachable with green apples aromas that aren’t too tart. The lees give the wine structure and complexity. Both serious and a crowd-pleaser.

website https://www.champagne-cazals.fr/en/index.php

email contact@champagne-cazals.fr

phone +33 3 26 57 52 26

address 28, rue du Grand Mont, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger