Victoire Coteaux Champenois Blanc (1x75cl)

Here's the thing worth knowing: Coteaux Champenois is the appellation for still wine made in Champagne. No bubbles at all. Almost everything from the region goes into sparkling, so still bottles like this one turn up rarely and most people have never tried one.

Chill it and pour it as you would any cool-climate white — good with oysters, steamed fish or a cheese course. It's also a genuinely interesting bottle to bring to a dinner where everyone thinks they know what Champagne tastes like.

Tasting notes

Still whites from Champagne usually come across lean and high in acidity, with citrus, green apple and a chalky mineral streak, since the region's cool climate typically keeps ripeness modest. Serve it well chilled.