The Frédéric Thomas Champagne Brut Carte Noire, while listed as a 2016 vintage, is predominantly known as a non-vintage (NV) offering from this Champagne house. The 2016 vintage in Champagne was challenging, marked by severe frosts, heavy rains, and mildew, though Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier generally performed well, contributing to wines with good fruit and acidity. This Carte Noire Brut typically features a blend, with some indications pointing to Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Tasting notes for this style often highlight citrus notes like lime, lime peel, and orange, alongside green apple. Other descriptions suggest a light golden color, a medium intense nose of green apples, peach, slight pineapple, brioche, yeast, and lemon. The palate is generally fresh and dry, with ripe fruit and tropical notes, good structure, crushed rock minerality, and an intense mousse with small bubbles. Gault&Millau describes a fine, golden color with a nose combining ripe yellow fruit and a hint of spice, leading to a vinous palate with a lovely pep and a gourmet, honeyed finish. This versatile Champagne pairs well with rich fish such as salmon and tuna, as well as mild and soft cheeses. It's also an excellent choice for an aperitif, white meats, canapés, oysters, sushi, sashimi, and various shellfish. Ideal for celebrations and gatherings, the Frédéric Thomas Champagne Brut Carte Noire is a balanced and fresh sparkling wine that can be enjoyed as an aperitif or throughout an entire meal. The 2016 vintage, despite its difficulties, produced wines that are ready to drink and offer good keeping potential. 【A classic Brut Champagne offering a balanced and fresh profile, suitable for a wide range of occasions and food pairings】.