Editor s Pick

LOUIS ROEDERER BRUT PREMIER

With the sublime champagnes on offer at The Legian, Bali's new sophisticated oceanfront champagne bar it would be extremely easy to get caught up in the famous vintages and names, waxing lyrical about the finesse and complexity of these delightful champagnes. For instance, in the mid-price bracket a Dom Pérignon truly takes some beating, while the audacity of a Cristal is perhaps beyond compare.

But when it comes to that elusive combination of quality, price and approachability, Louis Roederer Brut Premier is always going be a top choice. The personification of the Louis Roederer style, Brut Premier is one of The Ocean Champagne Bar's house champagnes and is available by the glass.

A blend of around 40% Pinot noir, 40% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Meunier, the wine is aged for three years in Louis Roederer's own cellars under the watchful eye of Cellar Master Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon, then left for a minimum of six months after disgorging. The result is a striking balance between youthfulness and maturity. The character is harmonious and structured, elegant, exuberant and lively and, most importantly, very enjoyable to drink.

The champagne itself is full and complex. Rich and powerful, it is a classic and eminently approachable champagne. Fresh fruit and hawthorn on the nose, followed by a smooth, complex palate showing apple, pear and red berries with notes of toast and almonds, the golden colour and fine bubbles make this a perfect aperitif, but also a wine that readily accompanies light entrées, particularly those based on fish or shellfish.