From a famously difficult vintage. Rain during bloom caused shatter, then there was an early harvest heatwave. Harvest was very early (the picking for sparkling wines started on 22 July) and rigorous selection was needed in the winery because of the mixed-quality bunches. All those reservations aside, some great wines were made. This Fay seems incredibly bright and fresh on the nose, then with rich and dense dark fruit on the plate and very fine juicy acidity, and very pleasing savouriness. It’s tremendous and only marred by a slightly hollow mid-palate.