Larmandier-Bernier BdB Extra Brut Vieille Vigne du Levant 2014

Thomas Weber - Dinner party hero

9/10

Opened this for a small dinner party with close friends and it was the star of the evening. Everyone kept commenting on how long the taste lingered after each sip. Bone dry which I love, none of that sugary champagne sweetness. Would definitely buy again for special occasions.

Olivia Wong - Birthday splurge that delivered

9/10

Bought this for my 40th and wow, it did not disappoint. The bubbles are super fine and it just keeps going — every sip had something new going on. At £148 it's not an everyday thing but for a milestone birthday? Absolutely worth it.

Mei-Lin Wu - Really nice but maybe not for me

7/10

The wine shop guy talked me into this over my usual Veuve and it's definitely more complex and interesting. Very dry though — I think I actually prefer a bit more sweetness in my champagne? The aromatics were gorgeous, I'll give it that. Just not sure I'd spend £148 again when I know what I like.

Tariq Hassan - Best champagne I've ever had

10/10

My wife's colleague recommended Larmandier-Bernier and we finally tried this 2014. The nose hits you straight away, really clear and layered, not shy at all. The finish goes on forever, like genuinely had to stop and appreciate it before pouring more. I get why it costs what it costs.

Kai Oliveira - Impressive but steep price

8/10

Had this at a tasting event and it's seriously good champagne. Really dry (it's extra brut so barely any sugar) which lets you taste everything properly — lovely balance of fruit and acidity. But £148 is a lot and I'm not sure it's twice as good as a £75 bottle I had last month.

Devon Marsh - Old vines = the real deal

9/10

Saw this on a restaurant wine list and the sommelier said the vieille vigne means old vines which apparently makes a difference. She was right. There's a depth and structure here that cheaper champagnes just don't have. Clean finish that sticks around for ages. Properly special bottle.