One of Champagne's best kept secrets, Pierre Cellier is made by Pierre Gonet of Philippe Gonet Champagne in the Côte des Blancs. This brand was originally made by Pierre's father (Philippe) for his friend's bistro in Paris, in the 1970s. Making its quiet debut a few years ago in the US, Pierre Cellier is more of a restaurant wine than a retail wine (try to find it!) Dominated slightly by Pinot Noir, the palate is a starburst of stone fruits with white cherry, red plum, and cold peach. Then, on the finish, the Chardonnay lingers with warm notes of brioche, sweet lemon and white stone. So, forget the loud brands, the big cheese and hollow hype, and celebrate the end of a year with something way more special, like a little Pierre Cellier.  Happy New Year, Allegra A