There are so many interesting Champagnes available these days beyond the big houses, and this Champagne from Louis Barthélémy in Epernay is one of them.  Their non-vintage Améthyste cuvée is a red grape dominant blend of 50% pinot noir and 30% pinot meunier, with 20% chardonnay making up the balance.  It is very classically profiled, with aromatics that remind of toast, lemon and brioche.  The palate is appealingly and resolutely dry, with a creamy mousse and nervy acidity framing its flavours of lemon and stone.  This is a lovely balanced Champagne.

Rating: Good, Abv: 12%, Price: $62, Source: sample, Vendors: http://www.bordeauxandbeyond.com/, Website: http://louis-barthelemy.com, Tasted: 2015