5. Champagne Cattier Brut Antique Premier Cru
Another somewhat boutique house, Cattier, like Henriot, has for some time been a bit of an insiders’ tip – both loved for the fact they produce great Champagnes, but are somewhat under the radar.
And, again like Henriot, Cattier is often recommended for the quality of its blanc de blancs Champagnes, although it was pleasing to see it deliver a Gold-medal quality fizz with this Brut NV – called Antique – using grapes sourced from premier cru sites.
Expect flavours of apple and pastry, not unlike a tarte tatin without the sweetness. And if you want to impress your friends, you might want to tell them that Cattier provides the wine for Jay-Z’s prestige cuvée fizz: Armand de Brignac, otherwise known as Ace of Spades.
Approximate retail price for Champagne Cattier Brut Antique Premier Cru: £38