‘Expression’ Extra-Brut 2010
A blanc de blancs champagne – so 100% Chardonnay – from Grand Cru vineyards in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger / Oger and Avize. A pale gold in the glass, with a fine bead of foamy bubbles. Elegantly perfumed with wheat biscuit, lemon, nutmeg, apple, nougat and mandarin peel. Full and rounded into the palate, with a racy acidity. A crisp, chalky minerality underneath that bite of fruit. An almond croissant flavour develops more towards the finish, with is long, dry and with a malty note. Lovely, serious, precise. 94pts
‘Murmure’ Brut Nature NV
Another blanc de blancs champagne – so again it is 100% Chardonnay – this classified as Premier Cru, although taking in some Grand Cru vineyards, and with approx 20% reserve wine, and zero dosage. A pale lemon-gold in the glass, showing a mousse of fizz that lingers right to the back of the palate. Nectarine, apple mint, blanched almond, fresh yeast, green papaya and apricot on the nose. A prickly dryness to the lean, tight palate, plus a tart and briney acidity. Savoury notes from oyster shell, green olive, flint and grapefruit pith. Lip-smackingly mouth-wateringly delicious, dry and persistant on the finish. 94pts
