H.Blin

One of the few Champagnes that I have had the opportunity to try over a number of years from my introduction to champagne in the early 2000s when working for Oddbins.
Based in Vincelles it is run by Simon Blin, the grandson of Henri Blin founder of H Blin. H Blin was formed initially with 28 growers in 1947 but has grown to 120 with over 123 hectares producing 500,000 bottles.
Most of the vineyards can be found in the town of Vincelles which has a South/South-East exposition.
Vincelles is mainly planted in Meunier and it represents 70% of H Blin’s production. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are split 15% each for the rest.

The wines are dominated with Meunier on the nose and palate with uncomplex fruit and floral notes and hints of gunpowder and tobacco.
Brut, an 80/20 Meunier/Chardonnay blend, shows a simple palate with clean and easy fruit.
A Blanc de Blancs is produced with an exotic edge and hints of burnt toast.
The vintage wines are always nice and easy, developing a touch of seductive toast with a bit of age.
H Blin have launched a range of prestige wines under the label, Edition Limitee. They undergo significant bottle ageing; Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut 5 years, Vintage Extra Brut 8 years, Rose Extra Brut 6 years. I was very impressed with the step up in elegance and purpose on the palate against the rest of the portfolio and look forward to enjoying these a bit more in the future.