The signature cuvée of Champagne Paul Bara, the Brut Réserve Grand Cru is a classic expression of Bouzy, one of the most celebrated villages in Champagne’s Montagne de Reims. Produced entirely from estate-grown Grand Cru fruit, this non-vintage Champagne combines the generosity and structure of Bouzy Pinot Noir with the freshness and finesse of Chardonnay.
91 James S...Show More >
The signature cuvée of Champagne Paul Bara, the Brut Réserve Grand Cru is a classic expression of Bouzy, one of the most celebrated villages in Champagne’s Montagne de Reims. Produced entirely from estate-grown Grand Cru fruit, this non-vintage Champagne combines the generosity and structure of Bouzy Pinot Noir with the freshness and finesse of Chardonnay.
91 James Suckling
Attractive aromas of pears and sliced apples with hints of yeast follow through to a medium body with bright acidity and a delicate bread-dough finish. A blend of 80% pinot noir and 20% chardonnay.
91 Wine Spectator
A creamy Champagne, offering concentrated flavors of mandarin orange preserves, dried white cherry and grated ginger, underscored by a streak of salty mineral. Well-balanced, with a lip-smacking finish. Disgorged December 2019. Drink now through 2023. 670 cases imported.
The blend is composed of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay from vines averaging approximately 35 years of age. Bouzy’s south-facing vineyards and deep clay-limestone soils encourage excellent ripeness while preserving the freshness, mineral definition and balance essential to fine Champagne.
Light yellow-gold in color, the wine shows fine, abundant bubbles and an attractive, persistent mousse. The aromatic bouquet opens with ripe orchard and stone fruits, including Mirabelle plum, yellow peach and quince. With air, more complex notes of sweet spice, honey, candied citrus, bergamot and orange peel begin to emerge.
On the palate, the Brut Réserve is rich, fresh and beautifully focused. Ripe yellow fruit and citrus are supported by lively acidity, a fine mineral backbone and the subtle peppery character associated with Pinot Noir from Bouzy. The texture is generous and mouth-filling, yet the finish remains dry, precise and refreshing.
Only the first pressing of the grapes is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, and malolactic fermentation is avoided to retain freshness and natural acidity. The Champagne receives extended aging in the estate’s deep chalk cellars before disgorgement, allowing the fruit to develop greater complexity while preserving its vibrant character.
The Bara family has been rooted in Bouzy since 1833. Today, the historic grower estate continues to produce Champagne from approximately 11 hectares of Grand Cru vineyards. Its wines are admired for their combination of ripe fruit, vinous depth, freshness and a distinctive expression of Bouzy’s chalk-rich terroir.
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Grapes: 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay
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Country: France
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Region: Champagne
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Subregion: Montagne de Reims
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Village: Bouzy
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Classification: Grand Cru
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Vintage: Non-Vintage
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Vine Age: Approximately 35 years on average
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Soil: Clay and limestone over deep chalk
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Vinification: First pressing only; fermented in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks
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Malolactic Fermentation: None
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Lees Aging: Extended bottle aging before release
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Dosage: Approximately 7 grams per liter; may vary by disgorgement
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Alcohol: Approximately 12.5%
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Style: Rich, dry, fresh and Pinot Noir-driven Grand Cru Champagne
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Serving Temperature: Approximately 46–50°F
Food Pairings: Serve as an aperitif or pair with oysters, shrimp, scallops, smoked salmon, roast chicken, pork tenderloin, creamy mushroom dishes, aged Comté or savory pastries. Its ripe fruit and subtle spice also make it an excellent match for apple, quince or apricot-based dishes.
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