Guilt-free bubbles

my only complaint was that the bottle was not photogenic

I took a day-trip to Hollywood last weekend and by chance found myself perusing the floor at K&L Wine Merchants. It was mostly fantasizing about wines that I can't afford to buy right now... Literally in every direction! Luckily the solution for all of the fantasies was in a good selection of half bottles on the shelves in front of the check out lanes. On those shelves was a magical guilt-free half bottle of Fleury NV Champagne Carte Rouge Brut for $21.99.

Fleury is well known as a grower-producer from the department of Aube in the south of the Champagne region. Early practitioners of organic viticulture, the estate began a conversion to biodynamic farming in 1989. Fleury is planted to 90% Pinot Noir with the balance being Chardonnay. The vineyards are located on steep slopes with soils of mostly calcareous clay. The Carte Rouge is a non-vintage Blanc de Noirs Brut. 

Notes- The mousse is foamy with a consistent medium-sized bead. Full golden color. Slightly maderized notes of baked apple and honey; with stone fruit and winter wheat aromas. Ripe and opulent on the palate with a depth of flavors consistent with the bouquet. Adds a tinge of mineral on the mid palate and finish. Ends crisp, dry and full. Very nice. $40 (rating- I like+!)