93
Vinous Anne Krebiehl MW
The NV Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Prestige was picked in Cramant, Chouilly and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, 68% is from the 2018 vintage, 23% from 2017 and 14% is from a perpetual reserve aged in large oak containing vintages from 2017 to 2009. Creamy polenta and chalk notes on the nose are subtle. Sprightly and still strident, fine mousse suggests that this will take kindly to another year of bottle age, but the bright palate with its freshness and chalky depth shows how well the warmer 2018 vintage was managed here. Subtle roundness is provided by unobtrusive oak, gentle creaminess and ripe lemon, yet the essential svelteness and chalkiness make this a treat. Balanced, salty and bright with umami on the finish. Dosage is 4gr/L.
Drink 2023 - 2030
Will (Seckford Wines)An absolute favourite of mine. On the nose this is fresh, with bruised apple skins, lemon curd, pear, honeysuckle and a touch of buttery pastry and brioche. On the palate it's strikingly elegant and precise, with mineral precision, a wonderfully fine mousse and floral notes. There's depth with layers of orchard fruits and creamy citrus, moving into ripe lemon curd and brioche which gives a lovely roundness and richness to the midpalate. The finish on this is long, minerally, precise and a bit spicy, with hints of white flowers and honeysuckle - lovely!