German wine importer Terry Thiese has branched out into Champagne where he searches out small producers of hand-crafted wines. Marc Hébrart, located in the Vallée de la Marne, makes this wonderful cuvée from 75% Pinot Noir (from the great 1er Cru vineyards of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Avenay Val d’Or, and Bisseuil) and 25% Chardonnay (from the Grand Crus Chouilly and Oiry). Hébrart employs techniques such as hand-selected grapes, Bucher pressing, fermentation in petite cuvée, malolactic, and hand remuage. His wines are fuller, richer, and better than Clicquot, yet they are buoyant, lithe, and integrated. Wine Advocate: 92 "The non-vintage Selection, a blend of 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay, reveals a deep, intense nose of spring onions and mineral liqueur. This Champagne has loads of depth, richness, concentration, and length. It is silky-textured, medium-bodied, and sports a long finish."