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Drappier Champagne Carte D'Or NV Brut 750ml
Drappier · Carte d’Or Brut NV · Champagne, France
Drappier Carte d’Or is a Pinot Noir-led Champagne with aromatic richness, stone-fruit character and a vinous palate. White peach, spice and quince jelly give it a generous personality, equally suited to an apéritif or a place at the dinner table.
Expert Reviews
James Suckling · 92 Points: Attractive aromas of white peach, dried orange, blanched almond and brioche with subtle hints of dried raspberries and crushed stones. Medium- to full-bodied palate with a creamy texture and delicate mousse. Long and even. A blend of 80% pinot noir, 15% chardonnay and 5% pinot meunier. Dosage 6.5g/L.
Wine Advocate · 91 Points: As always, the NV Brut Carte d'Or is a classic, well-executed and perfumed Champagne. It evokes aromas of white peach, ripe orchard fruits, pastry and spices. Medium-bodied, round and enrobing, it's delicately vinous and framed by an elegant mousse, with a lovely, mouthwatering, ripe orchard fruits-inflected finish. This blend of 80% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay and 5% Pinot Meunier was disgorged with 6.5 grams per liter dosage.
Wine Spectator · 90 Points: A bright Champagne in an aperitif style, with a pleasing range of ripe currant and raspberry, lime blossoms and orange peel set on a zesty bead. Creamy finish. Drink now.
Winemaker Description
Drappier: The Carte d'Or cuvée is the very expression of the Drappier style. With its very high proportion of Pinot Noir, one is almost tasting a Blanc de Noirs. Champagne with a fine aromatic richness, it opens with aromas of stoned fruits such as white vineyard peach. A spicy hint announces a powerful complex palate. A vinous Champagne of lovely complexity with a characteristic note of quince jelly.
Ideal as an apertif. At the table, it goes with white meats, rolled fish fillets, Chaource cheese.
Blend: 75% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay, 10% Meunier
About Champagne Drappier
The Gallo-Romans planted the first vines in Urville around 2,000 years ago. In 1152, Saint Bernard, founder of Clairvaux Abbey, had cellars built into the land. The Drappier family estate was established in 1808 around the preserved medieval Abbey, and the cellars continue to provide a home for storing and aging the house's wines.
Pinot Noir is central to Drappier's identity in Urville. The house describes managing its vineyards according to organic and natural practices, while preserving heirloom varieties including Fromenteau, Arbanne, Petit Meslier and Blanc Vrai. Its approach emphasizes terroir, low sugar dosage and moderate use of sulfites; the separate Brut Nature Sans Soufre cuvée is a particular expression of that philosophy.
Tasting Notes
White vineyard peach and stone-fruit aromas lead into a spicy, complex palate, with a vinous character and a distinctive note of quince jelly.
Food Pairings & Serving
Serve chilled as an apéritif, or follow the producer's suggestions of white meats, rolled fish fillets and Chaource cheese.
Wine Details
- Producer: Champagne Drappier
- Cuvée: Carte d’Or
- Vintage: Nonvintage
- Style: Brut Champagne
- Origin: Champagne, France
- Grapes: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Meunier
- Bottle size: 750ml
- Reviews: James Suckling 92; Wine Advocate 91; Wine Spectator 90
A rich, Pinot Noir-led Champagne for an aperitif or a leisurely meal.
Pierre Paillard Champagne 1er Cru Extra Brut Blanc de Noirs Ludes 2020 750ml (Introductory Price)
PIERRE PAILLARD CHAMPAGNE 1ER CRU EXTRA BRUT BLANC DE NOIRS LUDES 2020 | 750ML
🇫🇷 France — Pinot Meunier | Ludes, Montagne de Reims, Champagne
A terroir-driven Blanc de Noirs of rare precision and mineral intensity. The bouquet opens with ripe white peach, apricot, nectarine, red apple, citrus peel, brioche, and subtle floral accents. On the palate it is vinous yet sharply defined — fine bubbles, lively acidity, and a pronounced chalky salinity that takes precedence over the grape’s naturally generous fruit. The finish is long, dry, and energetic with an elegant, pleasantly bitter edge. A powerful yet beautifully controlled expression of Meunier — more linear, saline, and structured than the grape is often expected to be.
Produced entirely from old-vine Pinot Meunier (planted 1970) grown in the lieux-dits Les Hautes-Pertes and Les Vigneulles-de-Devant in the Premier Cru village of Ludes, near Grand Cru Mailly-Champagne. The soils are highly calcareous with very little clay over deep chalk subsoil — the source of the wine’s distinctive mineral tension. Vinified and aged in oak barrels, bottled under natural cork for secondary fermentation, then matured approximately 4.5 years on the lees before disgorgement at a very low dosage of 2 g/L.
94 Points — James Suckling
Pairs well with: Oysters, sushi, sashimi, smoked trout, grilled white fish, scallops, shellfish, roast poultry, and creamy cheeses. An exceptional aperitif.
Grape: 100% Pinot Meunier
Classification: Premier Cru
Village: Ludes, Montagne de Reims
Vintage: 2020
Lees Aging: ~4.5 years
Dosage: 2 g/L (Extra Brut)
Format: 750ml
Score: 94 pts James Suckling
Gosset Champagne Zero Dosage NV Gift Box 750ml
Gosset · Champagne, France · NV
The oldest Wine House in Champagne unveils a landmark creation, the first of its kind in its history: Gosset Zéro Dosage. It’s the first time that we introduce a “zero dosage” in our history. It’s a 2013 base wine, bottled in spring 2015 and disgorged after 10 years (spring 2025). Intended for the discerning wine connoisseur, this Champagne is a pared-down interpretation of Gosset’s inimitable style. Gosset’s first non-dosage Champagne, this cuvée brims with a radiant and vibrant freshness, delivering a taste experience that marries finesse with richness of flavour.
Sourced from the villages of Ambonnay, Avize, Bouzy, Cumières, Cramant, Villers-Marmery, and Rilly-la-Montagne, the cuvée is based on the 2013 harvest and was bottled after the base wines had spent more than a year maturing in vat, with a regular working of the lees from the first fermentation, including pumping over operations and re-suspension of the lees to enrich the wine. This prolonged contact with the lees has given the Champagne a full body, making it possible to dispense with dosage.
Expert Reviews
James Suckling, 95 Points, NV
“Wow. Bone-dry and intense. Lots going on here, but also understated. Chalky, yeasty and vinous, showing a briny, stony layer to the lemon zest and blanched almonds. Almost full-bodied, with great concentration and a lasting gastronomic finish. Mostly 2013 harvest, aged in vat for the first two years, then ten years in bottle. Great value. 62% chardonnay and 38% pinot noir. Disgorged May 2025. Drink or hold. 25,000 bottles made.”
— Zekun Shuai, 2026
Wine Spectator, 94 Points, NV
This graceful Champagne is rich and creamy, with lovely viscosity on the palate, honed by a bright spine of acidity. Offers a lovely range of black currant, roasted almond, lemon curd, poached apricot and grated coconut flavors, with a racy streak of salinity on the finish. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Drink now through 2031
— Alison Napjus, 2026
Details
- Producer: Gosset
- Region: Champagne, France
- Appellation: Champagne
- Varietal Composition: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir (62% Chardonnay, 38% Pinot Noir per James Suckling)
- Base Harvest: 2013, bottled spring 2015, disgorged spring 2025
- Serving: Drink or hold; Wine Spectator recommends drinking now through 2031
- Format: 750ml, presented in a gift box
Remy Martin Fine Champagne Cognac 1738 Accord Royal 750ml
Discover Remy Martin Fine Champagne Cognac 1738 Accord Royal
Producer Description
Born from the cask and named after a royal approval, Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal is a truly distinctive cognac; particularly smooth with a blend of uniquely oaky eaux-de-vie.
This unique blend of Rémy Martin1738 Accord Royal commemorates the reward of excellence bestowed on Rémy Martin by King Louis XV of France in 1738.
Particularly smooth, with a blend of uniquely oaky eaux-de-vie. The long and particularly soft barrel toasting brings extraordinary smoothness to 1738 Accord Royal, as well as subtle notes of toasted bread, vanilla and brioche.
1738 Accord Royal can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.
CLASSIC COCKTAIL
Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal is especially recommended for classic cocktails such as the Sidecar, the Collins, or in signature cocktails made by the most talented bartenders. 1738 Accord Royal mixes marvelously with citrus flavors.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
Remy Martin is renowned for its superior craftsmanship, and the Fine Champagne Cognac 1738 Accord Royal is no exception. This exquisite blend features grapes exclusively from the Grand Champagne and Petite Champagne regions, known for their unique terroir. The mastery involved in selecting and aging these grapes gives this cognac its distinct character, rich depth, and elegant flavor profile. Hence, connoisseurs highly regard this spirit not just for its taste but for the artistry behind it.
Flavor Profile
The flavor profile of Remy Martin 1738 Accord Royal is notably impressive. Upon first sip, you'll experience rich notes of ripe apricots and a hint of vanilla, which seamlessly blend with delicate oak and subtle spices. However, as it lingers, there is a pleasing warmth and sweetness that emerges, leaving a smooth finish. This complexity makes it an ideal choice for sipping neat, in cocktails, or as a luxurious accompaniment to dessert.
Perfect for Celebrations
Whether it's a toast at a wedding or a special gathering, Remy Martin Fine Champagne Cognac 1738 Accord Royal is perfect for celebratory moments. Its luxurious touch elevates any occasion, making it more memorable. Because of its high quality and exquisite flavor, people often choose this cognac to mark important milestones, ensuring that each sip is a celebration in itself. Celebrate life's special moments with a drink that's as exceptional as the occasion.
Caze-Thibaut Naturellement Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut Base 2023 750ml
Cazé-Thibaut · Naturellement Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut · Base 2023 · Champagne
Fabien Cazé, a tenth-generation grower, farms selected family parcels for his own small Champagne project. Naturellement is made entirely from Pinot Meunier grown across six parcels in Châtillon-sur-Marne and Vandières, on the western side of the Vallée de la Marne.
The family has tended these vineyards for generations, and Fabien's estate has been certified organic since 2018. Vineyard work is done by hand without herbicides or pesticides, with minimal soil disturbance. In the cellar, the grapes are pressed slowly and gently, moved by gravity, and fermented with native yeasts in barrels.
Extended time on fine lees and a restrained cellar approach let the fruit and place remain at the center. The result is a pure, precise Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut that showcases Pinot Meunier in a focused Champagne style.
At a Glance
- Producer: Cazé-Thibaut
- Cuvée: Naturellement
- Base: 2023
- Style: Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut
- Varietal: 100% Pinot Meunier
- Vineyards: Six parcels in Châtillon-sur-Marne and Vandières
- Region: Vallée de la Marne, Champagne, France
- Size: 750ml
A precise, vineyard-led Champagne that puts the character of Meunier and the Marne Valley in the spotlight.
Pascal Doquet Arpège Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature (2019 Base) 750ml (Introductory Price)
Pascal Doquet Arpège Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature — Côte des Blancs 2019 Base
Pascal Doquet is one of the leading organic growers of the Côte des Blancs, farming his vineyards in Vertus, Villeneuve, and Mont Aimé with certified organic practices and a deep commitment to terroir transparency. The Arpège is his entry-point Blanc de Blancs — 100% Chardonnay from parcels not selected for his limited-production Coeur de Terroir bottlings — yet it is anything but secondary. The chalk and flinty silex soils of Mont Aimé give the wine its distinctive mineral structure and smoky depth, while a substantial proportion of reserve wine held in enamel tanks adds complexity and consistency. Finished with zero dosage, the Brut Nature designation allows the Chardonnay and its vineyard origins to speak with exceptional clarity. Rated 93 points by James Suckling and 91 by The Wine Advocate.
The bouquet opens with ripe pear, crisp apple, and citrus, followed by spice, black tea, white flowers, and lightly toasted brioche. On the palate, the wine is energetic and finely textured — bright acidity, delicate bubbles, and a pronounced chalky, saline character. Subtle smoky and savory notes add complexity, and the finish is dry, focused, and persistent. An exceptional aperitif with the structure to carry through a full meal.
James Suckling 93 • Wine Advocate 91 • Wine Spectator 90 — "A refined yet expressive Champagne… terroir-driven and precise."
- Producer: Pascal Doquet, Côte des Blancs, Champagne, France
- Base Vintage: 2019 (with reserve wines)
- Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
- Vineyards: Vertus, Villeneuve & Mont Aimé
- Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
- Style: Blanc de Blancs, Brut Nature
- Dosage: 0 g/L
- Farming: Certified Organic
- Reserve Wine: Held in enamel tanks for freshness and purity
- Alcohol: ~12.5%
- Size: 750ml
- Tasting Notes: Ripe pear, apple, citrus, spice, black tea, white flowers, brioche, chalky minerality, smoky notes, saline finish
- Best Paired With: Oysters, shellfish, sushi, sashimi, grilled seafood, roast poultry, creamy cheeses, aged goat cheese
93 points from James Suckling. Zero dosage. Certified organic. Pascal Doquet's Arpège is Côte des Blancs Blanc de Blancs at its most honest and mineral-driven.
Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon "Terroirs d'Ecueil' 1er Cru" Extra Brut 750ml (Introductory Offer)
An Exceptional Expression of Premier Cru Champagne
Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Terroirs d'Écueil Premier Cru Extra Brut is an elegant, terroir-driven Grower Champagne that beautifully captures the distinctive character of Écueil, a Premier Cru village on the western slopes of the Montagne de Reims.
Crafted by Géraldine Lacourte and Richard Desvignes, this exceptional Champagne reflects generations of family winemaking tradition, meticulous vineyard management, and a deep respect for the land. The estate's roots date back to 1968, when Géraldine's parents, Jean-Guy Lacourte and Claudine Godbillon, established their Champagne house. In 2006, Géraldine and Richard left their professional careers to return to the family vineyards, bringing renewed energy and a commitment to producing expressive, site-specific Champagnes.
Terroirs d'Écueil is the estate's signature cuvée, crafted predominantly from Pinot Noir (85%), complemented by Chardonnay (15%). The grapes come from family-owned Premier Cru vineyards, where a distinctive combination of clay, sand, and chalk contributes to the wine's remarkable balance of richness, freshness, and mineral precision.
The Champagne incorporates carefully selected reserve wines, adding depth and complexity while preserving the vibrant fruit character of the current harvest. Aged extensively on its lees before release and finished with a minimal dosage, this Extra Brut offers exceptional purity, structure, and elegance.
Tasting Notes
In the glass, Terroirs d'Écueil displays a beautiful pale golden hue with a fine, persistent stream of delicate bubbles.
The expressive bouquet opens with fresh citrus, ripe orchard fruits, and subtle red berry notes, followed by delicate aromas of toasted brioche, sweet almond, and a touch of mineral complexity.
On the palate, this Champagne is vibrant, precise, and beautifully textured. The richness of Pinot Noir brings depth and generous fruit, while Chardonnay contributes freshness and finesse. Flavors of crisp apple, lemon zest, ripe pear, and subtle toasted pastry unfold across a lively, mineral-driven palate.
The finish is long, clean, and refreshingly dry, with an elegant interplay of citrus acidity, delicate salinity, and lingering mineral notes.
Professional Ratings
93 Points James Suckling: This impressive NV champagne shows what generosity and charm pinot noir is capable of in champagne. Impressive depth, but also lovely candied-citrus juiciness. Then comes a long and elegant, chalky finish. A cuvee of 85% pinot noir and 15% chardonnay, based on the 2018 vintage with 35% reserve wines from earlier vintages. It’s actually entitled to the Extra Brut designation, thanks to very low dosage. Sustainable. Drink now.
91 Wine Spectator: Racy acidity firms this tightly knit Champagne, while the fine texture softens some of the angularity and helps to show the range of the white raspberry, ground ginger, chalk and pink grapefruit pith flavors. Balanced overall, this should open nicely with short-term cellaring. Disgorged October 2016. Best after 2019. 3,300 cases made, 500 cases imported.
Food Pairing Suggestions
An outstanding aperitif Champagne, Terroirs d'Écueil is equally impressive at the table. Its vibrant acidity, fine bubbles, and refined structure make it a versatile companion to a wide range of dishes.
Pair it with freshly shucked oysters, shrimp cocktail, scallops, sushi, or delicate seafood preparations. It also complements roast chicken, creamy mushroom dishes, and soft-ripened cheeses such as Brie and Camembert.
For an elegant appetizer, serve alongside smoked salmon, delicate gougères, or freshly baked blinis with crème fraîche.
Ideal For: Celebrations, elegant dinners, Champagne enthusiasts, special occasions, and anyone seeking an authentic expression of small-production Grower Champagne.
Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Terroirs d'Écueil Premier Cru Extra Brut is a beautifully crafted Champagne that combines the richness of Pinot Noir, the finesse of Chardonnay, and the unmistakable mineral character of the Montagne de Reims. A sophisticated and memorable expression of its Premier Cru origins.
Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon "Terroirs d'Écueil" 1er Cru Extra Brut
Region: Champagne, Montagne de Reims, France
Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
Producer: Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon
Grapes: 85% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay
Style: Extra Brut, Grower Champagne
Dosage: Approximately 3–3.5 g/L
Schlossgut Diel Pinot de Diel Brut NV 750ml
Expert Reviews
The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The NV Brut Pinot de Diel is an assemblage of Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir, a réserve perpetuelle predominantly harvested in 2021. Aged sur lattes for two years and disgorged with a dosage of four grams per liter in May 2024, the wine opens with deep, bright and fresh, lemony fruit intertwined with delicate brioche, sur lie and also flinty terroir aromas. Round but dry and fresh on the palate, this is a medium to full-bodied Brut with a clear, long and mouth-cleansing finish. It's excellent in structure, complexity and length. 12% stated alcohol. Natural cork. Tasted at the domaine in Burg Layen in February 2025.
James Suckling 92 Points | This creamy, barely medium-bodied sparkling wine tastes very French, with appealing aromas and flavors of yellow apples, brioche and flint. The lively mousse deftly lifts the long candied-citrus finish. A cuvee based on the 2022 vintage plus some reserve wine, disgorged June 2025. Drink now.
Producer Notes
Variety: Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris (co-planted and co-fermented) • Region: Nahe • Vineyard: Various estate sites • Soil Type: Slate & quartzite • Fermentation & Élevage: Stainless steel fermentation and aging, minimum 20 months en tirage, dosage is sweet Pinot Gris aged in barrique.
Memo Summary Notes
The Schlossgut Diel Pinot de Diel Brut NV is a sophisticated German sparkling wine (Sekt) from the Nahe region. While many German sparkling wines are made from Riesling, this specific cuvée is a "Pinot" blend, modeled after the traditional Champagne style but with a distinct German terroir.
Schlossgut Diel is one of Germany’s most prestigious estates. While they are famous for their Grand Cru Rieslings, Caroline Diel spent time training in Champagne, and that influence is clear here. The "Pinot de Diel" is designed to be their "luncheon" sparkling—elegant enough for a celebration but versatile enough for the table.
Food Pairings
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Classic: Raw oysters, sashimi, or lightly fried calamari.
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German Pairing: Veal schnitzel with a squeeze of lemon.
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Casual: It is famously good with high-quality salty snacks like truffle popcorn or Marcona almonds.
Bollinger Champagne La Cote Enfants 2015 750ml (Introductory Offer)
97 Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate | 96 Points Wine Spectator | 95 Points Essi Avellan | 94 Points Vinous
Bollinger La Côte aux Enfants Champagne 2015 is an extraordinary, single-vineyard Blanc de Noirs that represents one of the rarest and most distinctive expressions of Pinot Noir in Champagne. Produced exclusively from 100% Grand Cru Pinot Noir grown on the legendary La Côte aux Enfants vineyard in Aÿ, this exceptional vintage Champagne captures the remarkable depth, precision, and mineral character of one of the region's most celebrated terroirs.
The historic vineyard was assembled by Jacques Bollinger between 1926 and 1934, reflecting his vision of producing extraordinary Pinot Noir from this prestigious site. While the south-facing slopes are traditionally associated with Bollinger's celebrated still red wine, the Champagne comes from the cooler, northwest-facing section of the vineyard, where chalk-rich soils contribute remarkable freshness, tension, and elegance.
The 2015 vintage was marked by a warm, dry growing season that produced beautifully concentrated grapes. Despite the vintage's natural richness, La Côte aux Enfants 2015 displays extraordinary vibrancy and precision, demonstrating the distinctive influence of its exceptional terroir.
The bouquet is intensely expressive, opening with aromas of bergamot, lemon, clementine, and orange blossom, followed by ripe quince, Mirabelle plum, and candied citrus. Subtle notes of dried fruits, toasted almonds, and delicate pastry add complexity, while an underlying chalky minerality provides remarkable aromatic freshness.
On the palate, this Champagne is powerful yet beautifully sculpted, revealing concentrated flavors of ripe orchard fruits, red grapefruit, baked white cherry, and citrus zest. A fine, satiny mousse complements its sophisticated structure, while vibrant acidity and pronounced saline minerality bring remarkable energy and focus. The finish is exceptionally long, precise, and mouthwatering, with lingering notes of roasted nuts, citrus peel, and crushed chalk.
Produced in extremely limited quantities, Bollinger La Côte aux Enfants 2015 is a remarkable Champagne for collectors and enthusiasts seeking an authentic expression of Grand Cru Pinot Noir. Its concentration, structure, and exceptional freshness promise outstanding aging potential.
Food Pairings: An exceptional companion to lobster with ginger butter, roasted poultry with preserved lemon, grilled scallops, roasted asparagus, and aged goat cheese. Its remarkable depth and mineral precision also make it a sophisticated Champagne to enjoy on its own.
Professional Ratings & Reviews
97 Points — Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Bollinger’s 2015 Blanc de Noirs La Côte aux Enfants, disgorged in February 2025 with a dosage of four grams per liter, stands as the most harmonious iteration to date—a conclusion reaffirmed during a retrospective tasting that included every vintage produced from the vineyard’s northwest-facing slope, which boasts a steep 39% gradient and shallow soils that have been cultivated according to organic practices since 2009. Harvested at 11.2% potential alcohol, with meticulous selection to exclude herbaceous elements—a refinement made possible through vinification in small barrels rather than large tanks—the wine opens with a flamboyant bouquet evocative of red grapefruit zest, pear, red plum, mango and pastry notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied and concentrated, with a vibrant core of fruit supported by racy acidity and ample chalky extract. The finish is long, saline and resonant, marked by Pinot Noir phenolics that just amplify its mineral signature. Denis Bunner notes that sugar accumulation occurred rapidly in this vintage, outpacing aromatic development, yet the decision to delay harvest proved fortuitous—and I wholeheartedly concur. This is an extroverted, characterful expression that aligns beautifully with Bollinger’s house style, and while it can be drunk with considerable satisfaction in the near term, it promises a broad window of enjoyment.
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck
Sourced from two hectares in Aÿ, this is the third release of La Côte Aux Enfants Brut, following 2012 and 2014. The 2015 Champagne Blanc De Noirs La Côte Aux Enfants Brut is medium to full-bodied, with fantastic purity, and offers more verticality than La Grande Année of the same vintage. It reveals fabulous, compact, and pure notes of black raspberry, smoky wet stones, frangipane, and fresh flowers. The mousse is refined and elegant, with lasting notes of black cherry liqueur lasting through a long finish. While it is fabulous now, those seeking more decadence will need to be patient as it fleshes out. Disgorged in February of 2025.
96 Points — Wine Spectator
A statuesque Champagne, with crystal-cut acidity providing fine definition to flavors of baked white cherry and cassis, lime peel, and roasted almond, with accents of ground anise, pickled ginger and raisin bread toast. Long and mouthwatering, with a fine, satiny mousse, plus a streak of salinity creating a refreshing tang on the finish. Disgorged February 2025.
94 Points — Vinous
The 2015 Blanc de Noirs La Côte aux Enfants is tropical, rich and super-expressive right out of the gate. The Côte aux Enfants offers a decidedly mineral-drenched, racy expression of Pinot Noir, with tons of salinity and bracing vibrancy to match. The imprint of site is so strong, so compelling. Low dosage of 4 grams per liter accents the wine's energy to the maximum. The 2015 was disgorged in February 2025, so readers should plan on being at least a little bit patient. It's another very fine offering from the team at Bollinger. April 2025
Wine Details
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Producer: Champagne Bollinger
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Wine: La Côte aux Enfants Champagne
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Vintage: 2015
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Country: France
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Region: Champagne
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Appellation: Champagne AOC
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Village: Aÿ, Grand Cru
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Vineyard: La Côte aux Enfants, northwest-facing slope
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Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
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Style: Vintage Blanc de Noirs Champagne
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Classification: Grand Cru
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Vineyard Type: Single-vineyard monopole
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Soil: Chalk-rich limestone
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Color: Saffron yellow
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Dosage: 4 g/L (Extra Brut)
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Aging: Extended cellar maturation under natural cork, more than twice the appellation minimum
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Disgorgement: February 2025
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Alcohol: 12.5% ABV
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Bottle Size: 750ml
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Serving Temperature: 46–50°F (8–10°C)
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Cellaring Potential: Excellent; suitable for extended aging
Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Rose 1er Cru Extra Brut 750ml (Introductory Offer)
A Beautiful Expression of Premier Cru Rosé Champagne
Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé Premier Cru Extra Brut is an elegant, beautifully expressive Grower Champagne that captures the finesse and vibrant red-fruit character of Pinot Noir grown in the Premier Cru village of Écueil, on the western slopes of the Montagne de Reims.
Produced by Géraldine Lacourte and Richard Desvignes, this sophisticated Rosé reflects generations of family winemaking tradition, meticulous vineyard care, and a commitment to expressing the distinctive character of Champagne's terroir.
The husband-and-wife team returned to the family estate in 2006, bringing a renewed focus to vineyard quality, organic farming, and carefully considered winemaking. Their approach emphasizes precision and authenticity, allowing the personality of their Premier Cru vineyards to shine through in every bottle.
Expert Ratings
Wine Advocate 91 Points: "Based on the 2021 vintage, and augmented by 45% reserve wines (mostly from 2020, along with 6% red wine from 2019), Lacourte-Godbillon’s NV Premier Cru Rosé was disgorged in June 2024 with a dosage of three grams per liter. Opening with enticing aromas of tangerine zest, red apple and red plum, it leads into a medium- to full-bodied, elegant palate underpinned by a racy spine of acidity and ample chalky structure, concluding with a delicately perfumed finish. This is a rosé Champagne of finesse rather than power." —Kristaps Karklins
Wine Enthusiast 91 Points: "With a small amount fermented in wood, this Champagne has richness, spice and a touch of maturity to open the flavors. A ripe wine with hints of strawberry, it is ready to drink." —Roger VossWinemaking & Vineyard Character
Crafted entirely from Pinot Noir, Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé combines the richness and structure of this noble grape with the freshness and elegance of a finely balanced Champagne.
For the 2021-base Extra Brut release, the blend incorporates 45% reserve wines from the 2020 and 2019 harvests, adding depth and complexity while maintaining a lively fruit-driven character.
A small portion of Pinot Noir is vinified as red wine in oak barrels, contributing the Champagne's beautiful salmon-pink color and delicate red-fruit aromas. The balance of the wine is carefully fermented and matured to preserve freshness, texture, and purity.
Extended aging on the lees brings greater complexity and finesse to the finished Champagne, while the low dosage of just 3 grams per liter ensures a wonderfully dry, precise, and refreshing finish.
Tasting Notes
In the glass, this Champagne displays a delicate salmon-pink color with a fine, persistent stream of elegant bubbles.
The expressive bouquet opens with aromas of wild strawberries, red cherries, fresh raspberries, and red currants, complemented by hints of citrus zest, delicate florals, and subtle toasted almond.
On the palate, Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé is beautifully balanced, combining generous red-fruit flavors with vibrant acidity and a refined mineral backbone.
Notes of ripe strawberry, red apple, cherry, and blood orange unfold across a fresh, rounded palate, accompanied by gentle hints of brioche, almond, and chalky minerality.
The mousse is delicate and creamy, creating a beautifully textured mouthfeel without sacrificing the wine's energy and precision.
The finish is long, dry, and exceptionally refreshing, with lingering impressions of red berries, citrus, and subtle savory complexity.
Food Pairing Suggestions
With its vibrant fruit character, elegant acidity, and refined structure, Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé is wonderfully versatile at the table.
It pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, salmon tartare, seared tuna, grilled shrimp, and delicate seafood appetizers. Its Pinot Noir character also makes it an excellent companion to roasted poultry, duck breast, and charcuterie.
For cheese lovers, serve alongside creamy Brie, Camembert, fresh goat cheese, or mature Cantal.
For an elegant seasonal pairing, enjoy this Rosé with fresh strawberries, a summer tomato and burrata salad, or a delicate red-fruit dessert.
Serving Temperature: 46–50°F (8–10°C). Serve in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass to appreciate its aromatic complexity and fine bubbles.
Perfect For: Romantic dinners, celebrations, elegant entertaining, Champagne tastings, special occasions, and anyone seeking a beautifully crafted, small-production Rosé Champagne.
Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé Premier Cru Extra Brut is a captivating expression of 100% Pinot Noir—combining vibrant red-fruit aromas, exceptional freshness, refined minerality, and the unmistakable elegance of Premier Cru Champagne.
Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon Rosé 1er Cru Extra Brut 750ml
Region: Champagne, Montagne de Reims, France
Appellation: Champagne Premier Cru
Producer: Champagne Lacourte-Godbillon
Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Village: Écueil, Premier Cru
Style: Rosé Champagne, Extra Brut, Grower Champagne
Dosage: 3 g/L (2021-base release)
Bottle Size: 750ml
Benoit Dehu Champagne Cuvee Initiation Rose Extra Brut (Base 2022) 750ml (Introductory Price)
Benoît Déhu’s Cuvée Initiation Rosé Extra Brut is an expressive grower Champagne from Fossoy, on the western edge of the Vallée de la Marne in Champagne, France. Déhu is an eighth-generation vigneron whose family estate dates to 1787. After working at Champagne Bollinger, Benoît returned to his family domaine and developed his own highly personal range of naturally farmed, terroir-driven Champagnes.
The 2022 Initiation Rosé is composed of 78% Meunier and 22% Pinot Noir, with 7% still red wine blended into the cuvée to create its delicate rosé character. Meunier plays a central role in Déhu’s work, particularly from his celebrated La Rue des Noyers vineyard, while Pinot Noir brings additional structure, depth and red-fruit character.
Déhu farms with a strong commitment to biodynamic and natural viticulture, including work according to the lunar calendar and the use of traditional vineyard practices. His wines are known for their careful oak vinification and élevage, with many barrels made from trees sourced in the nearby forest of Fossoy.
The 2022 Initiation Rosé is elegant, vibrant and savory, with notes of cranberry, dried flowers, ginger and cinnamon. Bright acidity and fine minerality give the wine energy and precision, while the red wine component lends subtle texture and depth. Despite its delicacy, the wine has impressive persistence and complexity.
Vinous notes that this release was bottled with no dosage, emphasizing its dry, energetic and terroir-driven style. It was disgorged beginning in April 2025, with multiple disgorgements taking place throughout the year.
94 Points — Vinous
“The NV (2022) Extra Brut Rosé Initiation is laced with cranberry, ginger, dried flowers and cinnamon. Elegant and light on its feet, the 2022 is a total delight. This deceptively understated Rosé is gorgeous. Readers should expect a decidedly savory style. The Initiation is 78% Meunier and 22% Pinot Noir, with 7% still red wine blended in. Bottled with no dosage. Disgorged: April 2025; multiple disgorgements throughout the year.”
— Antonio Galloni, Vinous, 94 Points
Wine Details
Producer: Benoît Déhu
Wine: Cuvée Initiation Rosé Extra Brut
Base Vintage: 2022
Region: Champagne, France
Area: Vallée de la Marne
Village: Fossoy
Grapes: 78% Meunier, 22% Pinot Noir
Rosé Method: Blend with 7% still red wine
Farming: Biodynamic and natural viticulture
Vinification: Oak vinification and élevage
Dosage: No dosage for this release
Disgorgement: Beginning April 2025; multiple disgorgements
Rating: Vinous 94 Points
Bottle Size: 750ml
Benoît Déhu Champagne Cuvée Initiation Rosé Extra Brut (Base 2022) 750ml
R Pouillon Champagne Solera Extra-Brut (1997-2018 base) 750ml (Introductory Price)
R. Pouillon & Fils | Soléra | Extra-Brut | Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne | 1997–2018 Base | Biodynamic
R. Pouillon & Fils is one of Champagne's most exciting and principled grower-producers, based in the Premier Cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne. Fabrice Pouillon farms his vineyards according to organic and biodynamic principles, with a deep commitment to expressing the individual character of each parcel and the terroir of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.
Soléra Extra-Brut is one of Fabrice Pouillon's most distinctive and intellectually compelling Champagnes — a multi-vintage cuvée created from a perpetual reserve established in 1997, designed to diminish the influence of any single harvest and place the character of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ firmly at the center of the wine. Each year, approximately 30% of the soléra is drawn off for secondary fermentation and replaced with 30% wine from the new harvest. This continuous process allows numerous vintages to become seamlessly integrated, adding layers of maturity and complexity while preserving the freshness and vitality of the most recent wine.
The blend is an equal partnership of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Mareuil-sur-Aÿ — Pinot Noir contributing structure, depth, and vinous power; Chardonnay bringing freshness, lift, and finely defined acidity. From the creation of the soléra through the addition of the 2010 vintage, the reserve was aged entirely in stainless steel. It is now maintained in upright oak vessels with full malolactic fermentation — an evolution in élevage that contributes additional texture and dimension without obscuring the purity of the fruit or the mineral character of the terroir.
Electric and terroir-driven, with high-toned aromatics, fresh acidity, and exceptional length. The bouquet opens with orange zest, ripe pear, apple blossom, fennel seed, and warm brioche, with notes of steeped raspberry, whole-grain toast, honeycomb, spice, and a subtle hint of Timut pepper. On the palate, medium- to full-bodied, bright, and seamless — generous fruit and layered texture balanced by tangy acidity and ample chalky extract. A fine, persistent mousse carries the flavors across the palate, while the Extra-Brut dosage keeps the finish dry, precise, and energetic. Light on its feet yet possessing remarkable depth and intensity, continuing to unfold with each sip.
Pair with oysters, lobster, roasted poultry, mushroom dishes, smoked fish, aged Comté, and other firm or nutty cheeses.
- Producer: R. Pouillon & Fils
- Cuvée: Soléra Extra-Brut
- Style: Multi-vintage Extra-Brut
- Appellation: Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Vallée de la Marne, Champagne, France
- Blend: 50% Chardonnay, 50% Pinot Noir
- Soléra Established: 1997; most recent addition 2018
- Method: ~30% drawn off and replaced annually with new harvest wine
- Farming: Organic & biodynamic principles
- Élevage: Initially stainless steel (through 2010); now upright oak vessels; full malolactic fermentation
- Dosage: Extra-Brut
- Bottle Size: 750ml
Critical Acclaim
- Wine Advocate — 94 pts: Orange zest, pear, fennel seeds, warm brioche, and a hint of Timut pepper. Medium- to full-bodied, bright, and seamless with striking complexity. Ample chalky extract and tangy acidity define its structure, with a persistent mousse through the long finish.
- Wine Spectator — 92 pts: Rapier-like acidity with expressive flavors of steeped raspberry, whole-grain toast, apple blossom, and a touch of honeycomb.
Miraval Cotes de Provence ROSE 2023 375ml HALF BOTTLE
Winemaker Description
Magnificent bright rose-gold color with silver undertones. Very elegant, the nose reveals a superb, intense and delicate aromatic bouquet, mixing notes of hibiscus and amaryllis with a gourmet nature offering delicious aromas of vine peaches.
The sophistication continues on the palate with a beautiful tension, an ample, fleshy, silky texture, a very nice balance, and gourmet aromas of crunchy fruit combined with the minerality of saline and limestone notes. The finish is outstanding, full of length.
Pierre Paillard Champagne Extra-Brut Grand Cru Bouzy Les Terres Roses XIX 750ml (Introductory Price)
Pierre Paillard Champagne Extra-Brut Grand Cru Bouzy Les Terres Roses XIX | 750ml | Bouzy Grand Cru, Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
Pierre Paillard's Les Terres Roses XIX is a refined and vinous rosé Champagne produced entirely from the Grand Cru vineyards of Bouzy, one of the Montagne de Reims' most celebrated villages. Bouzy is particularly renowned for its powerful, deeply flavored Pinot Noir, while its chalk-rich soils bring freshness, structure and mineral definition to the finished wine.
The XIX release is based primarily on the 2019 harvest and is composed of approximately 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir. Five percent of the blend is Bouzy Rouge — a still red wine made from old-vine Pinot Noir — which contributes the cuvée's delicate color, red-fruit character and subtle tannic structure.
Fermentation takes place in oak, followed by approximately three years of aging on the lees before disgorgement. A low dosage of 2 grams per liter preserves the wine's dry, precise Extra-Brut character while allowing the richness of the Bouzy fruit to remain beautifully expressive.
Pale pink in color, Les Terres Roses XIX opens with pure aromas of raspberry, red currant, wild strawberry and cherry, joined by notes of grapefruit, mandarin, iris blossom and crushed chalk. The palate is generous yet finely structured, balancing ripe red fruit with vibrant citrus acidity, a creamy mousse and a subtle touch of toast from its oak fermentation and extended lees aging.
The finish is long, dry and mineral-driven, with lingering notes of red berries, citrus peel, almond and saline chalk. It is both elegant enough to serve as an aperitif and sufficiently structured for the table.
Food Pairing
An excellent pairing with smoked salmon, tuna tartare, lobster, grilled shrimp, roast poultry, duck, charcuterie, mushroom dishes and soft-ripened cheeses. Serve well chilled in a white-wine or tulip-shaped Champagne glass.
Wine Details
- Producer: Champagne Pierre Paillard
- Country: France
- Region: Champagne
- Appellation: Champagne Grand Cru
- Village: Bouzy
- Area: Montagne de Reims
- Cuvée: Les Terres Roses XIX
- Base Harvest: Primarily 2019
- Wine Type: Rosé Champagne, Extra Brut
- Blend: Approximately 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, including 5% Bouzy Rouge
- Farming: Certified organic
- Fermentation: Oak
- Lees Aging: Approximately 3 years
- Dosage: 2 grams per liter
- Classification: Grand Cru, Extra Brut
- Bottle Size: 750ml
Larmandier-Bernier Terre de Vertus Bl. de Blancs Non Dosé 1er Cru 2017 750ml (Introductory Pricing)
Terre de Vertus is one of Larmandier-Bernier's most celebrated single-terroir Champagnes — a vintage Blanc de Blancs drawn entirely from Chardonnay grown in the Premier Cru village of Vertus. The fruit comes from two plots within the Les Barillers lieu-dit, situated mid-slope with a southeast exposure, a site the estate has vinified separately since 1995. Farmed biodynamically and fermented spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in old oak casks and large wooden foudres, the wine rests on its lees through winter before undergoing secondary fermentation in bottle and more than five years of additional lees aging. The 2017 was disgorged in May 2023 with zero dosage — no sugar added — preserving the vineyard's exceptionally pure, dry and mineral expression.
Expert Reviews - Vintage 2017
93 Wine Advocate: "The 2017 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Terre de Vertus imparts a very mineral, almost crystalline character. A vineyard that rarely produces powerful wines, even in the context of 2017, it has retained its personality, though it's a little more generous and slightly less focused than the 2016 rendition. Unfurling from the glass with aromas of lemon peel, honeysuckle and oyster shell, it is medium-bodied, racy and saline-tinged."
93 Vinous: "Creamy, open-knit and quite seductive. Readers will find a generous, sensual Champagne with plenty of early appeal. Dried pear, crushed flowers, mint and chamomile build beautifully over time. This is a fine effort in a very challenging year."
Tasting Notes
Precise, expressive and intensely mineral. The nose opens with lemon peel, dried pear and delicate floral notes, followed by honeysuckle, mint, chamomile and a distinctive oyster-shell salinity. The palate is creamy and generous yet beautifully energized — fine acidity and a taut mineral backbone carry through to a finish that is dry, racy, saline and exceptionally pure. Oak fermentation lends supple texture; zero dosage ensures nothing stands between you and the terroir of Vertus.
Food Pairing
An exceptional partner for oysters and shellfish, sashimi, sushi, scallops, grilled or roasted white fish, lobster, roast poultry and aged cheeses. Its saline character and zero dosage make it especially compelling alongside seafood and dishes built around fresh herbs or citrus.
Specifications
Grape Variety: Chardonnay (100%)
Country: France
Region: Champagne
Sub-Region: Côte des Blancs
Village: Vertus
Classification: Premier Cru
Style: Blanc de Blancs / Brut Nature / Non Dosé
Dosage: 0 g/L — Zero Dosage
Vintage: 2017
Vineyard: Les Barillers lieu-dit
Farming: Biodynamic
Fermentation: Indigenous yeasts in old oak casks and large wooden foudres
Aging: 5+ years on the lees in bottle
Disgorgement: May 2023
ABV: 12%
Bottle Size: 750ml
Producer: Larmandier-Bernier
Paul Bara Rosé Brut Grand Cru NV (Kermit Lynch) 750ml (Introductory Pricing)
About Champagne Paul Bara
Paul Bara Rosé Brut Grand Cru NV is a vibrant, expressive Rosé Champagne from one of Bouzy’s most storied grower estates — a family that has farmed this celebrated Grand Cru village since 1833. The estate tends approximately 11 hectares of clay-limestone and chalk-rich vineyards planted primarily to Pinot Noir, and its Champagnes are renowned for their combination of ripe fruit, fine structure, and a distinctive sense of place. Composed of 80% Pinot Noir (including 12% estate-produced Bouzy Rouge) and 20% Chardonnay, this Rosé is a benchmark expression of Bouzy’s vinous depth and red-fruit generosity.
Tasting Notes
Luminous salmon-pink in the glass with a fine, persistent mousse. The bouquet is expressive and inviting: raspberry, wild strawberry, and red cherry lead, accompanied by dried apricot, citrus peel, and delicate flowers, with subtle accents of almond, biscuit, and gentle spice emerging with air. On the palate, the wine is lively, generous, and beautifully balanced — juicy red fruit supported by refreshing acidity and a fine mineral backbone, with a smooth, creamy texture from approximately four years of lees aging. The finish is dry, focused, and persistent, with lingering red-fruit, citrus, and savory mineral notes.
Critical Acclaim
Decanter — 96 Points: “Enticing creamy raspberry and ground almond notes which propel over the pink grapefruit acidity and gorgeous glowing, silky mousse. Delicate with a crushed red fruit ending.”
James Suckling — 93 Points: “Attractive fruit with sliced-strawberry and apple aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied with fresh apples and citrus as well as touches of heather and bread dough. Tangy at the end.”
Winemaking
Only the first pressing of the grapes is used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks; malolactic fermentation is avoided to preserve freshness and natural acidity. The estate-produced Bouzy Rouge contributes the Rosé’s attractive color, richness, and red-fruit complexity. Aged approximately four years on lees before release — well beyond the NV minimum — developing greater texture and depth while retaining vibrant fruit. Sustainable farming, lutte raisonnée. Average vine age: approximately 35 years.
Food Pairings
Exceptional as an aperitif. Pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, tuna tartare, sushi, grilled shrimp, lobster, duck breast, roast poultry, pork tenderloin, charcuterie, creamy cheeses, and red-berry desserts. Versatile enough to accompany an entire meal.
Remy Martin Cognac VSOP 375ml HALF BOTTLE
Rémy Martin VSOP — Fine Champagne Cognac
Rémy Martin VSOP is one of the world’s most celebrated cognacs — a benchmark expression from the house that has specialized exclusively in Fine Champagne Cognac since 1724. Sourced entirely from the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus of Cognac, France, this gold-hued VSOP is twice the age of a standard VS and delivers a perfect harmony of power and elegance.
Aged in French Limousin oak, the nose opens with dominant vanilla, subtle apricot, fresh apple, and delicate floral notes. On the palate, ripe stone fruit and a whisper of licorice unfold with a silky, well-balanced texture and a long, refined finish.
- Producer: Rémy Martin, Cognac, France
- Classification: VSOP Fine Champagne Cognac
- Size: 375ml (Half Bottle)
- ABV: 40%
- Tasting Notes: Vanilla, apricot, apple, stone fruit, licorice, silky finish
- Best Enjoyed: Neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails — Sidecar, Cognac Sour, or Stinger
The 375ml half bottle is perfect for gifting, exploring, or keeping a premium cognac on hand without committing to a full bottle.
R. Pouillon Champagne Les Terres Froides Blanc de Blancs Extra-Brut 2020 750ml
R. Pouillon & Fils | Les Terres Froides | Blanc de Blancs Extra-Brut | Tauxières-Mutry, Montagne de Reims, Champagne | 2020 | Organic
R. Pouillon & Fils is one of Champagne's most exciting and principled grower-producers, based in the Premier Cru village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ in the Vallée de la Marne. Fabrice Pouillon farms his vineyards with rigorous organic principles and biodynamic practices — emphasizing healthy soils, balanced vines, careful observation, and minimal intervention, allowing each vineyard's natural character to remain at the center of the finished Champagne.
Les Terres Froides — "the cold lands" — is a precise and mineral-driven Blanc de Blancs from a distinctive single vineyard in the village of Tauxières-Mutry, within the Montagne de Reims. Fabrice Pouillon farms approximately half a hectare in the lieu-dit Les Fourches, southwest of Tauxières-Mutry and close to Tours-sur-Marne. The vineyard's northern exposure and cool microclimate contribute to a long, gradual ripening season, preserving exceptional freshness, acidity, and aromatic precision. Tauxières-Mutry was historically awarded a 99% rating under the échelle des crus classification — just one point below Grand Cru status — and the soils in this parcel contain a higher proportion of chalk than those closer to the village, creating an exceptional environment for Chardonnay.
The wine is vinified in a combination of neutral barriques and traditional enameled tanks, undergoes malolactic fermentation, and is raised for approximately eight months before bottling — a restrained approach that preserves the freshness and saline character of the Chardonnay while adding subtle texture and complexity.
Lemon zest, crisp green apple, white peach, pear, and delicate white flowers on the nose, evolving into crushed chalk, oyster shell, fresh bread, and subtle spice. On the palate, taut, focused, and beautifully delineated — bright citrus and orchard fruit carried by vibrant acidity and a fine, persistent mousse. A pronounced chalky minerality gives the wine tension and exceptional length. The Extra-Brut dosage keeps the finish dry, refreshing, and laser-precise.
For Chablis drinkers. For those who would rather begin a meal with oysters and end it with nothing but a refill. This is Champagne at its absolute finest.
Pair with oysters, shellfish, caviar, sushi, grilled fish, scallops, goat cheese, fresh cheeses, and lightly prepared poultry.
- Producer: R. Pouillon & Fils
- Cuvée: Les Terres Froides Blanc de Blancs
- Style: Blanc de Blancs Extra-Brut
- Appellation: Tauxières-Mutry, Montagne de Reims, Champagne, France
- Grape: Chardonnay (100%)
- Vintage: 2020
- Farming: Organic with biodynamic principles
- Vineyard: Les Terres Froides (lieu-dit of Les Fourches); northern exposure; ~0.5 ha
- Soils: Chalk-rich clay-limestone; 99% échelle des crus
- Vinification: Neutral barriques & enameled tanks; malolactic fermentation
- Élevage: ~8 months before bottling
- Dosage: Extra-Brut
- Alcohol: 12% ABV
- Bottle Size: 750ml
Philipponnat Champagne Rose Royal NV 750ml
Philipponnat Champagne Rose Royal NV · Champagne, France
Producer Description
“Rosé” is the new name of the House’s Royale Réserve Rosé cuvée. This simple, clear choice is designed to convey the natural elegance and purity of expression of this Champagne. This name affirms the wine’s unique identity, combining finesse, freshness and authenticity.
For a long time part of the “Royale Réserve” trio alongside the Brut and the Non Dosé, Rosé is now fully distinct from it, embracing its singular character and asserting its special place within the range.
The Rosé cuvée strikes a refreshing balance between colour and fruit. This rosé Champagne is made from the same blend as the Réserve Perpétuelle cuvées. In addition, there is a small proportion of the most mature possible red Champagne wine from our very best vineyards. This wine is concentrated by saignée and gains in intensity without becoming overloaded with tannins or vegetal characteristics, instead developing aromas of red and black fruit.
Most of the Pinot Noir and the small proportion of the Chardonnay used to make Rosé come from Premiers and Grands Crus. Only the first presses are selected, guaranteeing finesse and concentration. The blend includes 53% reserve wines, matured in oak, which bring complexity and depth to the wine, while preserving the freshness essential to its balance.
The House
Apvril Le Philipponnat (the ‘Le’ was subsequently dropped during the French Revolution) was the earliest member of the family to settle in Champagne. Captain of a Swiss military unit from the canton of Fribourg, he joined the French military during the war between Francis I and Italy. He is known to have married Marie d’Ambonnay, through whom he owned vineyards in Mareuil and Ay. The House dates its establishment in the Champagne region from 1522. Apvril is mentioned as the owner of Ay on this date in the will of Dom Jean Royer, the last Regular Abbot of Hautvillers.
In 1696, Apvril’s descendants, who were often ‘Royal Mayors’ of Ay, registered the family coat of arms in the Armorial de France. Today, this same coat of arms adorns all the House’s bottles. The labels of Philipponnat, vineyard owners and wine merchants, were among the first to bear the signature of sparkling Champagnes as early as the mid-19th century. Later, in 1910, Auguste and Pierre Philipponnat gave the family business a broader and more modern scope by creating their own company and acquiring the Château de Mareuil cellars.
Over the course of its long history, the House of Philipponnat has developed twenty hectares of vineyards of Premiers and Grands Crus, ideally located in the heart of the Champagne region, while maintaining special relationships with their partner viticulturists, who entrust the House with their output. They supply grapes for a broad but very balanced range of Champagnes that are both rich and distinctive.
Bold and refined, the Rosé cuvée reveals a beautiful aromatic intensity. Its generous red fruit aromas are enhanced by a hint of spice. Thanks to the quality of its blend, Rosé offers excellent ageing potential, evolving nobly over the years. Produced in brut, this Champagne goes perfectly with characterful dishes and reveals all its liveliness when served chilled. Rosé is the ideal wine for summer evenings.
Expert Reviews
James Suckling, 92 Points — Good reserve and freshness to this Champagne, which shows peonies, rose petals, bread crumbs and cinnamon and spice. A vertical palate follows, where tangy acidity punctuates integrated and creamy bubbles and carries subtle stone fruit medium-long. Drink now.
The Wine Advocate, 91 Points — Based on the 2015 vintage with 40% reserve wines, the NV Brut Rosé Royale Réserve was disgorged in August 2019 with nine grams per liter dosage. Revealing a lovely bouquet of red apples, honeycomb, cherries, peach and beeswax, it’s medium to full-bodied, fleshy and gourmand, with a generous core of fruit, lively acids and a refined mousse.
The Wine Spectator, 90 Points — Dry and sharp, with a mix of berry and biscuit flavors accented with citrus and spice. Persistent from beginning to end, starting off with a fine mousse and finishing with a squeeze of lemon.
Details
- Bottle Size: 750ml
- Region: Champagne, France
- Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- Type: Sparkling
- Style: Brut