La Grande Année 2018 is a blend of 19 crus, mainly from Verzenay,Aÿ, and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ for the 66% Pinot Noir, and Chouilly and Cuis for the 34% Chardonnay.
Fermentation takes place entirely in oak barrels and maturation occurs under cork, with aging in the cellar lasting more than twice as long as required by the appellation rules. The dosage is moderate at 6 grams per liter.
The initial nose bursts with fresh citrus and Granny Smith apple, enhanced by notes of orchard fruits: white peach, apricot, and mirabelle plum. When aerated, fresh almond comes through amid aromas of breadcrumbs and acacia honey. This aromatic harmony is organized around a beautiful central theme, where citrus and mineral notes mingle with a delicate touch of white peony. A structured and balanced palate, revealing notes of stewed fruit and quince. The texture gradually mellows, offering a creamy effervescence.
VINOUS 96 POINTS - "Quite pretty and delicate. Floral and citrus notes are nicely lifted in a Grande Annee that offers notable sensuality and grace. Hints of orchard fruit, chamomile, mint and chalk build through the mid-palate and into the taut, chiseled finish. There's plenty of energy and focus. More importantly, this is a fine effort in a year marked by high yields in Champagne."
WINE ADVOCATE 94+ POINTS - "Unfurling in the glass with aromas of peach, yellow apple, and orange peel mingled with freshly baked bread and mango, it is medium- to full-bodied, ample and textural, with a generous core of fruit, animated by a pillowy mousse and laden with ripe yet vibrant acidity, carrying through to a long finish."
Fermentation takes place entirely in oak barrels and maturation occurs under cork, with aging in the cellar lasting more than twice as long as required by the appellation rules. The dosage is moderate at 6 grams per liter.
The initial nose bursts with fresh citrus and Granny Smith apple, enhanced by notes of orchard fruits: white peach, apricot, and mirabelle plum. When aerated, fresh almond comes through amid aromas of breadcrumbs and acacia honey. This aromatic harmony is organized around a beautiful central theme, where citrus and mineral notes mingle with a delicate touch of white peony. A structured and balanced palate, revealing notes of stewed fruit and quince. The texture gradually mellows, offering a creamy effervescence.
VINOUS 96 POINTS - "Quite pretty and delicate. Floral and citrus notes are nicely lifted in a Grande Annee that offers notable sensuality and grace. Hints of orchard fruit, chamomile, mint and chalk build through the mid-palate and into the taut, chiseled finish. There's plenty of energy and focus. More importantly, this is a fine effort in a year marked by high yields in Champagne."
WINE ADVOCATE 94+ POINTS - "Unfurling in the glass with aromas of peach, yellow apple, and orange peel mingled with freshly baked bread and mango, it is medium- to full-bodied, ample and textural, with a generous core of fruit, animated by a pillowy mousse and laden with ripe yet vibrant acidity, carrying through to a long finish."
