Soon to be celebrating 40 years of making Méthode Traditionelle wines in Marlborough; No.1 Family Estate are the only winery in the country specialising in this particular style of wine. A real celebration wine – we opened three bottles of the Non Vintage version, and compared notes – see below:
No.1 ‘Assemblage’ Méthode Traditionelle
The classic champagne grape varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier brought together to make this stylish wine. Brioche, nutmeg and preserved lemon on the nose. A bold, bright acidity is a real feature – sparkling with a quartz minerality. Dry and medium-bodied, fine mousse bubbles deliver flavours of strudel, peach and oat biscuits. 92pts
Cuve No.1 Blanc de Blancs Méthode Traditionelle
100% Chardonnay, on lees for 2 years. Voluminous bouquet of spring flowers, macadamia and lime zest. Crisp and elegant with flavours of nectarine, chamomile, crystallised pineapple and a bite of yeasty sourdough. A racy acidity drives the wine to a silky textural and slightly drying finish of great length. 93pts
No.1 Rosé Méthode Traditionelle
From just Pinot Noir, and a glowing salmon pink colour in the glass; with the finest, silken mousse of bubbles. Bursting with scents of freesia, strawberry and a hint of roast cashew. Dry to taste but with a creamy texture, balanced with a spine of taut acidity. Flavours of crisp fruits like red apple and white cherry mingle with pear danish and baking spices. 93pts
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