1095 products

Sparklings

Nothing quite matches the sparkle and sensation of fine bubbles dancing across the tongue. However, not everyone can drink Champagne on a regular basis. That's why we also stock affordable, quality Loire Valley sparklings, Prosecco, Sparkling reds and more, tasting hundreds of examples each year to bring you the best at any given price point.

    • 97
    2009 Louis Roederer Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $115. 00
    Bottle
    $1380.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2017-2022)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Rich and full with terrific power

    A blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, with 18% of the wine vinified in oak casks. Aged on lees for 4 years the wine is then given a minimum 6 months bottle age after disgorgement. Excellent creamy white mousse with a light straw, pale gold base colour. A very fine bead shows good persistence. Pronounced baked bread and yeast lees aromas lead the way followed by hints of pear, faint dried honey, toast and cashew. Drinking exceptionally well now this rich, creamy textured Champagne boasts terrific power with well meshed flavours of baked bread, yeasty characters and oily toast nuances gracing the palate over subtlety roasted almonds and infusions of citrus on the dry mouth watering finish. Fuller and richer than the more finessed Blanc de Blancs it concludes with a long oily toast, baked bread, yeast lees, citrus and roasted almond aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 12%

    • 98
    • 99
    2012 Louis Roederer Cristal Rose Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $899. 00
    Bottle
    $10788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.

    Other Reviews….

    This is a great vintage for Cristal Rosé. The pinot noir finds a band of power and expressiveness. The power here is impressive, very assertive and rich, really mouth-filling and super deep. This is exceptional and has intense, chalky and fresh, white-peach and nectarine aromas, underpinning red flowers and pink fruit. The palate has a scintillating blend of flesh and mineral cut, packed with such sweet, pristine, white-strawberry flavor and texture. This has such incredible potential. So exciting. Will take another two or three years to resolve. Look out for this! Drink from 2025.
    99 points
    James Suckling

    The 2012 Cristal Rosé is magnificent. When Chef de Caves Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon started to move Roederer towards organically farmed fruit, he started with Cristal Rosé, Roederer’s smallest production cuveé. Because of that, Cristal Rosé is the wine in this range that shows the current Roederer style in its fullest expression. Rich, vivid and crystalline in the glass, the 2012 Cristal Rosé is a Champagne of tremendous gravitas. Chalk, white flowers, sweet red berry fruit, mint and blood orange are all beautifully delineated. The 2012 is 55% Pinot from Ay and 45% Chardonnay from Mesnil and Avize. The Pinot fruit gets a 7-10 day cold soak an is the infused into the fermenting Chardonnay musts. Readers who can find the 2012 should not hesitate, as it is truly magical. Dosage is 8 grams per liter. Drink 2022 - 2052.
    98+ points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 96
    • 97
    2009 Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $330. 00
    Bottle
    $3960.00 Dozen

    Other reviews….
    2009 Cristal has really shut down since I tasted it this past spring, which is probably a very good thing for its potential longevity. The radiance and richness the 2009 showed just a few months ago is not all evident. Instead, the 2009 comes across as tightly wound and in need of considerable cellaring. I expect it will drink well for a period measured in decades rather than years. The 2009 has always been quite exuberant, but for now, it looks the wine is going to need a bit of time before it is at its best. Readers should note that Roederer has decided to release the 2009 ahead of the 2008.
    96+ points
    Antonio Galloni – Vinous


    A very rich and full-bodied Cristal that harks back to 2006 or 1989 in style. It's round and rich, which underlies the ripeness of the vintage. Lots of dried-apple and pineapple character with bread dough and flan flavors. The bubbles are so fine you almost don't notice them. Very vinous style. Drink now.
    97 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 95
    • 93
    2012 Louis Roederer Rose Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2023-2024)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    A blend of 62% Pinot Noir and 38% Chardonnay made using the saignee method. A frothy white mousse sits comfortably over a salmon pink tinged base wine that’s threaded by a very fine and persistent stream of bubbles. Refined nose with subtle winter strawberry notes melding into yeast lees and toast followed by citrus and light baked bread notes. Savoury, subtle red berry fruit flavours delicately caress the palate with underlying yeast lees, citrus and toast elements. Dry energetic finish with crisp acidity. Good length with a long elegant aftertaste of winter strawberries, pears, yeast lees, subtle toast, baked bread and a touch of refreshing citrus.
    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews….
    Vibrant acidity frames expressive flavors of poached apricot, mandarin orange peel, toasted brioche and almond blossom in this well-knit, pale, salmon-hued Champagne, while the lacy mousse carries an echoing streak of salinity on the finish. Drink now through 2028.
    93 points
    Wine Spectator

    1996 Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne
    Champagne,
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Louis Roederer is unique in Champagne owning two-thirds of the vineyards for their total production covering the PinotNoir sub regions of “Montagne de Reims” and “Vallee de la Marne” with Chardonnay from the “Cotes des Blanc”. By 1995, recent acquisitions had increased Louis Roederer's holdings from 180 hectares to nearly 190 hectares, ranking 97.5% on the official classification scale. In 1876, Tsar Alexander II asked that his personal champagne be presented in crystal bottles, thus giving rise to the very first prestige cuvee. Today, the Cristal bottle exemplifies the quest for perfection which inspires the House of Louis Roederer to provide its demanding and refined clientele withexceptional Champagnes.

    Pinot Noir 55%, Chardonnay 45%. Dosage: 11gms/litre. The "liqueur dosage" is prepared from a selection of 8-10 of the very best crus from Louis Roederer vineyards, which have been aged for 4-10 years in oak.

    After a grey, cool winter, very little rain fell during the entire growing season. Early June was particularly warm presenting favourable growing conditions, but the last ten days were much cooler and upset the flowering of the Chardonnay, causing severe “millerandage” (uneven development and size of the berries). Under these very dry conditions, all the grape varieties in Champagne, and especially the Chardonnay, produced bunches with small berries, and as a result yields were low. This in turn was favourable for the maturation of the grapes and theconcentration of aromas. The month of September was sunny but not particularly warm, with some infrequent periods of light rain. These conditions allowed maturation to advance exceptionally well, and the grapes attained very high sugar and acidity levels, and at the same time very small concentrated berries. There was no infection of Botrytis or Grey Rot. At the blending stage, the base wines showed great aromatic depth. There was beautiful fullness on the palate, with an almost creamy texture, and enormous power, all backed up by remarkable acidity. Jean-Claude Rouzaud said : “At the close of primary fermentation, it is possible to detect great potential for vintage quality in these still young wines. With forty-one of Champagne’s finest crus in our vats, there is every likelihood that Louis Roederer will produce great wines from the 1996 harvest.”

    Cristal is made from the finest cuvees pressed from the highest quality grapes from the Champagne Louis Roederervineyards. Today it is still produced in limited quantities, always as a vintage wine and only in exceptional years. A truly fine Champagne, Cristal is characterised by its finesse and elegance (derived from the high proportion of Chardonnay in the blend), and its enticingly delicate bouquet and perfect balance.

    Tasting Note: Ripe yellow colour with pastel green-gold highlights. Rich and ripe bouquet with juicy fruit aromas (yellow and white peaches and apricot) - with a generous sweetness indicating a powerful wine, and just a hint of brioche. The palate attacks full and round with the fine, creamy mousse supporting a powerful wine. The full concentration, characteristic of the 1996 vintage, is very evident here. A vinous finish with both freshness and finesse and quite impressive persistence. Time in bottle will see Cristal Brut 1996 develop into an even more beautifully, harmonious wine.

    Serve well chilled. Richly perfumed, Louis Roederer Cristal 1996 is an exquisite aperitif or celebratory Champagne. The strength and finesse of Cristal 1996 make it an excellent accompaniment to delicate dishes including shellfish such as scallops, lobster and crayfish, John Dory fish and caviar.

    • 98
    2008 Louis Roederer Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2020-2021)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    An Outstanding Champagne from the Superb 2008 vintage that’s a ménage of richness and refinement.

    A blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay that has been aged for 4 years in Louis Roederer’s cellars. Opens impressively with a creamy white mousse that shows excellent hold. Pale straw base wine colour with an exceptionally fine and very profuse bead. A classic Champagne sniff showing both sophistication and fabulous aromatic intensity with aromas of yeast lees and freshly baked bread to the fore followed by some delicate citrus notes, oily toast like characters, cashew and brioche. Reflective of the nose the palate is a ménage of richness and refinement delivering a complex flavour profile of yeast lees and baked bread intermixed with traces of citrus and pear overlaid by toasty brioche like characters. Outstanding length. Clean dry finish with a creamy like texture. Finishes with a long conclusion of yeast lees, baked bread, faint pear, toasty brioche and subtle oily cashews.

    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews…
    Winemaker Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon spent years in Tasmania for the Roederer-Heemskerk joint venture too far ahead of its time. His return to Champagne saw estate vineyards increase to 235ha and the construction of a second winery. This 80% pinot noir, 20% chardonnay (50% barrel-fermented) is built for the ages, soaring with purity and intensity, racy grapefruit and apple flavours interwoven with silvery acidity, grip and persistence its hallmark.
    96 points
    James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion

    • 96
    • 96
    • Biodynamic
    2015 Louis Roederer Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2023-2031)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    A blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay that’s matured on lees for 4 years. A buoyant mousse gradually subsides to reveal a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold tinged edges and a fine stream of tiny bubbles flowing effortlessly through its core. Enthralling the olfactory senses are alluring aromas of baked bread, citrus and yeast lees with hints of cashew, oily toast like notes and dried honey also evident. Rich yet highly finessed with a light airy feel across the palate, flavours of pear, yeast lees, citrus and baked bread are vividly sculptured by refreshing acidity. Delicate cashew and toast elements linger underneath. Finishes dry with a long precise, chalk tinged aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    A great 2015 vintage champagne! Super-elegant synthesis of pinot noir and chardonnay character with a dazzling interplay of complex red apple, citrus and delicate floral aromas with racy acidity and chalky minerality, that is animating for mind and body. Unusually graceful finish for the vintage. 70% pinot noir from Verzy, the highest point of the Montagne de Reims, that’s also very close to the forest. 30% chardonnay from Chouilly, another rather cool location. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
    96 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 96
    2012 Louis Roederer et Philippe Starck Brut Nature Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $165. 00
    Bottle
    $1980.00 Dozen
    Cellar: 6 - 8 Years (2026-2028)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork
    This zero dosage Champagne has been made in collaboration with artist Phillipe Starck.
    Pours with a satiny white mousse that hold well over a straw/pale gold coloured base that has a fine racy bead flowing through it. Pronounced yeast lees, oily toast and baked bread aromatics intermingle with hints of dried honey, citrus and cashew. Rich yet very focused with a dry sculptured finish, the palate features pear, oily toast, yeast lees and baked bread flavours which interact with citrus and roasted almond elements. Vivid acidity leads into a long tightly knit aftertaste.
    Cellar 6-8 years.
    Alc. 12%
    • 94
    2010 Macedon Ridge Blanc de Blanc
    Macedon Ranges, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2018-2019)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Cork
    Good white frothy mousse with a pale straw base colour and a very fine profuse bead. Excellent nose with pronounced aromas of baked bread and yeast lees followed by some subtle toastiness, cashew and delicate dried honeycomb. A rich Champagne like sniff. The palate has good richness and a creamy texture with flavours of cashew nut, yeast lees and baked bread followed by some citrus and toast. Clean very dry finish. Medium to long aftertaste of cashew nut, citrus, yeast lees and toast.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc 13%
    • 93
    Macedon Ridge Brut
    Macedon Ranges, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: 2 - 3 Years (2016-2017)
    ABV: 12.6%
    Closure: Cork
    Excellent frothy white mousse that shows good hold. Once dissipated it reveals a pale salmon pink base colour with an exceptionally fine and very persistent bead. Ripe pear notes are intermixed with hints of winter strawberry and yeast lees followed by subtle baked bread and citrus end notes. Refreshing palate flavours of pear sit alongside nuances of winter strawberry and a touch of apple with yeast lees characters following. Clean dry finish with well balanced acidity. Very flavoursome and refreshing with an aftertaste of pear, apple, winter strawberry and yeast lees.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc 12.6%
    • 89
    Maison de Grand Esprit Les Petites Vignettes Pinot Noir Chardonnay Brut
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2009-2012)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A blend of 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay. Good white creamy mousse that dissipates relatively quickly. Pale straw base colour with very fine persistent bead. Delicate aromas of baked bread, brioche and yeast lees. The palate is clean and dry with flavours of yeast lees, biscuit and cashew. Creamy texture with aftertaste of biscuit and cashew followed by a hint of toast.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years (2009-2012)
    12.5% Alc

    • 92
    • 90
    2009 Maison Mumm RSRV Blanc de Noirs Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Tasted from a bottle disgorged in May 2018, the 2009 Brut Blanc de Noirs RSRV Cuvée Réservée is performing better than the last time I tasted it, delivering an inviting bouquet of biscuity orchard fruit, honeycomb and toast. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, it's bright and lively, with a youthfully frothy mousse and an elegantly chalky finish.
    90 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (May 2020)

    Lots of strawberry and fresh bread-dough flavors to this with a creamy and fine bubble texture. A richer and fruitier style than some. Hints of almonds, too.
    92 points
    jamessuckling.com

    • 96
    • Nick's Import
    Marguet Elements 11 Grand Cru Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2019-2020)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Exceptional Value for Grand Cru Champagne


    Our long affiliation with this first rate grower/producer comes to an end with the appointment of a new Australian wholesaler. The changeover brings bad news for Champagne lovers. From now on you can expect to be paying up to 50% more for Marguet. This offer represents the last stocks in Australia at our original direct import prices. Take advantage! Disgorged in April 2015, this is Marguet’s new blended Champagne – ‘Elements’. The 11 on the front label indicates the dominant and youngest vintage of the blend, in this case being 2011. A blend of 66% Pinot Noir and 34% Chardonnay it pours with a creamy white mousse and very pale gold base wine colour. The bead is very fine and exceptionally profuse. Superb nose displaying aromas of pear intermixed with baked bread and yeast lees characters followed by hints of cashew and brioche. Refined with an underlying richness and quite creamy, yet fresh in its textural mouthfeel the palate features flavours of baked bread, subtle pear and yeast lees over a background of toasty brioche characters. Excellent length with a fresh dry finish and long aftertaste of baked bread, yeast lees, subtle toast and cashew. Will benefit from another 6 months bottle age.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    • 96
    2009 Marguet Grand Cru Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2020-2021)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork
    Pours impressively with a frothy white mousse that shows good hold. Very pale gold straw base wine colour with an exceptionally fine bead that shows great persistence. The nose reveals aromas of pears and apples overlaid by baked bread and yeast lees characters with some lightly toasted dried honey end notes. Rich mouthfilling flavours of baked bread, yeast lees and toast are followed by some pear and faint cashew. Excellent concentration and very creamy in texture. Clean dry finish with a long aftertaste of roasted almonds, baked bread, yeast lees and cashews.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc 12.5%
    • 97
    • Nick's Import
    Marguet Pere et Fils Brut Reserve Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2015-2019)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    When Philippe II, Regent of France began regularly imbibing Champagne at the Palais-Royal, it was inevitable that the Parisian upper class would imitate his opulence. Parisian restaurants and bars began selling huge quantities of the 'new sparkling wine' and the door of opportunity opened for entrepreneurial individuals to found houses solely dedicated to the production of Champagne. Many of these are today industry giants.

    Moet & Chandon, Veuve Cliqout, Lanson and Mumm, amongst others, have all become juggernauts, focused on maintaining their ‘luxury’ status by employing massive marketing budgets, relentlessly advertising through magazines, billboards and high profile celebrities. Their brands are far too ubiquitous to require any emphasis to be placed on the source of the fruit, the terroir, or indeed the quality of the finished product. Yet the quiet mutterings about the deterioration of the big house's wines grows louder each day.

    Marguet offer some of the most extraordinary values in Champagne available in Australia today

    Marguet Pere et Fils Champagne is one of those remarkable discoveries that are only occasionally experienced in a wine merchant's life. The company is a small family operation. Their only option is to sell on quality and maintain their market share by ensuring any price increases remain modest. This attitude is all the more remarkable when one learns that their wines are produced using fruit sourced from some of the highest ranking vineyards in the region: There are 324 villages (or 'crus') with vineyards in Champagne. Each cru is rated by a system known as 'échelle des crus' which gives every village a rating for the quality of its grapes.

    The present day excitement in Champagne mostly lies beyond the bill boards and marketing swank, out where the smaller houses quietly excel.

    A 100% Grand Cru classification is very rare, in fact only 17 villages out of 300 are entitled to this classification (equalling approximately 1% of Champagne's entire production). Not surprisingly, the scarcity of Grand Cru grapes makes them expensive and so they're reserved for the finest cuvees of Champagne's most prestigious firms. Both Marguet's Vintage and Non Vintage Champagnes are produced from 100% Grand Cru fruit (think of N/V Bollinger at $90+ which is now partly sourced from Premier Crus and you'll begin to appreciate how dramatically underpriced these wines are). Nicks Wine Merchants / Vintage Direct search the world for extraordinary and exciting new wines, continuing a policy of dealing directly with wineries whenever possible. Through bypassing the wholesalers, these are unquestionably the most extraordinary values in Champagne available in Australia today.

    The Non Vintage Marguet an absolute steal when one considers its 100% Grand Cru status.

    Pours a creamy white long lasting head, supporting a profusion of very fine, persistent bead. Straw colour base wine. The nose delivers aroma of yeast lees, nougat and biscuit – that is impressive in its own right. However, the best is yet to come. The palate has blossomed into a wonderful creamy textured Champagne layered with biscuit, yeast lees and nougat flavours. Clean acid finish. Very long aftertaste of biscuit and nougat. If you let what's in the bottle do the talking (instead of the label) you'll understand why we consider this to be the best value Champagne on the Australian market today.
    Cellar now - 4 years (2015 - 2019)
    Alc/Vol:12%

    • 96
    • Nick's Import
    2004 Marguet Pere et Fils Grand Cru Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2010-2016)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    The 2004 Marguet was produced from a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir. Very elegant and classy now, this vintage will continue to develop. As it stands it is a stunning value given the 100% Grand Cru status.

    Exceptional value for Grand Cru Vintage Champagne with this much bottle age

    The wine pours with an excellent white creamy mousse showing good hold. Pale straw coloured base wine with exceptionally fne and very persistent bead. The nose displays delicate but refned notes of citrus, biscuit, yeast lees and cashew. Refned palate favours of yeast lees, biscuit, baked bread and cashew with a light citrus overlay delivering great length and persistence. Creamy texture with a clean crisp dry fnish. Very long aftertaste of yeast lees, biscuit, toast and cashew.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years (2010-2016)
    Alc 12.0%

    Other Reviews....
    This is a very enticing price for a wine loaded with the ravishing power of some of Champagne’s greatest grand crus. It’s structured, intense and fleshy, with a linear acid line and chalky mineral texture. An enticing style that confidently manages the precarious balance of arresting concentration and high-tensile structure. Drink 2011-12
    94 points
    Tyson Stezler - Wine Taste

    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    • Biodynamic
    2015 Marie Courtin Indulgence Extra Brut Rose Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $190. 00
    Bottle
    $2280.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Based in the tiny hamlet of Polisot in the southern Cote des Bars region of Champagne, Dominique Moreau is producing some of the most dynamic and striking wines of the area. Naming her estate after her grandmother, Marie Courtin, Dominique has set out to craft Champagnes which emphasise how her specific terroir can be expressed in a given vintage. Her wines then are single vineyard and single vintage, made with meticulously grown fruit from biodynamically-grown grapes, see no dosage, and sulfur is used sparingly or not at all.

    Indulgence is 100% Pinot Noir that is macerated for four days on skins giving a deep, rich colour to this Rosé Champagne.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2015 Extra Brut Rosé Indulgence is fabulous. Dried rose petal, herbs, mint, sweet red cherry and a host of savory accents all run through the 2015. Beguiling and nuanced at every turn, the Indulgence certainly lives up to its name! It is another wine in this range I absolutely adore. No dosage. Disgorged: September, 2020. Drink 2021 - 2027.
    95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    • Biodynamic
    2009 Marie Courtin Indulgence Extra Brut Rose Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $220. 00
    Bottle
    $2640.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Based in the tiny hamlet of Polisot in the southern Cote des Bars region of Champagne, Dominique Moreau is producing some of the most dynamic and striking wines of the area. Naming her estate after her grandmother, Marie Courtin, Dominique has set out to craft Champagnes which emphasise how her specific terroir can be expressed in a given vintage. Her wines then are single vineyard and single vintage, made with meticulously grown fruit from biodynamically-grown grapes, see no dosage, and sulfur is used sparingly or not at all.

    Indulgence is 100% Pinot Noir that is macerated for four days on skins giving a deep, rich colour to this Rosé Champagne. This 2009 edition is a library release that was not disgorged until July 2020.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2009 Extra Brut Rosé Indulgence, a library release, is showing beautifully today. Candied red cherry, cedar, tobacco, cinnamon, mint, licorice and earthy notes are all signs of a Champagne that is now fully mature. The 2009 has aged beautifully, but at eleven years of age, it is now definitely ready to drink. I would not push my luck on aging, both because the 2009 is so expressive now and because it won't improve. Readers who want to know what saignée Rosé tastes like with age will find a fabulous example here. Disgorged: March, 2020. Drink 2020 - 2022.
    93 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 94
    • 92
    • Nick's Import
    • Biodynamic
    Marie Courtin Resonance (V18) Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Based in the tiny hamlet of Polisot in the southern Cote des Bars region of Champagne, Dominique Moreau is producing some of the most dynamic and striking wines of the area. Naming her estate after her grandmother, Marie Courtin, Dominique has set out to craft Champagnes which emphasise how her specific terroir can be expressed in a given vintage. Her wines then are single vineyard and single vintage, made with meticulously grown fruit from biodynamically-grown grapes, see no dosage, and sulfur is used sparingly or not at all.

    Résonance is Dominique's most elegant and lively expression of Pinot Noir. Grapes for this cuvée come from the top of the slop in her Polisot vineyard, and the thin soils are expressed in this bright and finely tuned wine. Hailing from the 2018 vintage, fermentation and aging occurred in stainless steel tank prior to disgorgement in April 2021 with no dosage.

    Pours with a frothy white mousse that shows good hold over a pale straw coloured base that has flashes of pale gold around the outskirts and a nibble stream of bubbles flowing through it. Top notes of peach and strawberry intermingle with yeast lees, citrus and a subtle baked character. Tense and sculptured the palate features chalk tinged flavours of citrus, green apple and delicate lees characters which sit over a minerally oyster shell like backbone. Finishes lean, bone dry and elegant with precise acidity and a tight focused mineral laden conclusion.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews....
    The 2018 Extra Brut Resonance is bright, articulate and focused. This is an especially nervy expression of Pinot Noir. Bright acids and veins of salinity lend energy to this sculpted, taut Pinot Noir. Citrus peel, crushed rocks, mint jasmine and white pepper lend energy. No dosage. Disgorged: April, 2021. Drink 2021 - 2028.
    92 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    • Biodynamic
    2016 Marie Courtin Eloquence Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $155. 00
    Bottle
    $1860.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Based in the tiny hamlet of Polisot in the southern Cote des Bars region of Champagne, Dominique Moreau is producing some of the most dynamic and striking wines of the area. Naming her estate after her grandmother, Marie Courtin, Dominique has set out to craft Champagnes which emphasise how her specific terroir can be expressed in a given vintage. Her wines then are single vineyard and single vintage, made with meticulously grown fruit from biodynamically-grown grapes, see no dosage, and sulfur is used sparingly or not at all.

    Éloquence is a tiny production of 100% Chardonnay from a plot of 15-20 year old vines, fermented in used barrels. Given the proximity of this plot to the region, it's no surprise that Eloquence has more than a passing resemblance to the pure and mineral driven wines of Chablis (with bubbles!).

    Other Reviews....
    The 2016 Extra Brut Eloquence is a powerful, deep wine. A richer side of Chardonnay is very much in evidence here. Orange peel, apricot, spice and honeyed overtones build in a sumptuous, vinous Champagne built on texture and breadth. It’s a super-classic wine from proprietor Dominique Moreau. No dosage. Disgorged: July, 2020. Drink 2021 - 2028.
    93 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 94
    • Nick's Import
    • Biodynamic
    2015 Marie Courtin Efflorescence Extra Brut Champagne Magnum (1500ml)
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $320. 00
    Bottle
    $3840.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Based in the tiny hamlet of Polisot in the southern Cote des Bars region of Champagne, Dominique Moreau is producing some of the most dynamic and striking wines of the area. Naming her estate after her grandmother, Marie Courtin, Dominique has set out to craft Champagnes which emphasise how her specific terroir can be expressed in a given vintage. Her wines then are single vineyard and single vintage, made with meticulously grown fruit from biodynamically-grown grapes, see no dosage, and sulfur is used sparingly or not at all.

    Éfflorescence is 100% Pinot Noir that is fermented and aged in used barriques. Dominique chooses the vines from the lower part of this vineyard as she believes this results in greater power and aging potential. As with all her wines this does not receive any dosage at bottling.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2015 Marie Courtin Efflorescence is ample and resonant in feel. Plum, cherry, spice and ginger meld into a deep core of Pinot fruit that continues to flesh out with a bit of time and aeration. There's terrific depth, density and creaminess here, not to mention tons of sheer personality. No dosage. Disgorged: June, 2021. Drink 2021 - 2028.
    94 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 94
    • Nick's Import
    • Biodynamic
    2015 Marie Courtin Efflorescence Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $140. 00
    Bottle
    $1680.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Based in the tiny hamlet of Polisot in the southern Cote des Bars region of Champagne, Dominique Moreau is producing some of the most dynamic and striking wines of the area. Naming her estate after her grandmother, Marie Courtin, Dominique has set out to craft Champagnes which emphasise how her specific terroir can be expressed in a given vintage. Her wines then are single vineyard and single vintage, made with meticulously grown fruit from biodynamically-grown grapes, see no dosage, and sulfur is used sparingly or not at all.

    Éfflorescence is 100% Pinot Noir that is fermented and aged in used barriques. Dominique chooses the vines from the lower part of this vineyard as she believes this results in greater power and aging potential. As with all her wines this does not receive any dosage at bottling.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2015 Marie Courtin Efflorescence is ample and resonant in feel. Plum, cherry, spice and ginger meld into a deep core of Pinot fruit that continues to flesh out with a bit of time and aeration. There's terrific depth, density and creaminess here, not to mention tons of sheer personality. No dosage. Disgorged: June, 2021. Drink 2021 - 2028.
    94 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    • Biodynamic
    • Preservative Free
    2015 Marie Courtin Concordance Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $175. 00
    Bottle
    $2100.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Based in the tiny hamlet of Polisot in the southern Cote des Bars region of Champagne, Dominique Moreau is producing some of the most dynamic and striking wines of the area. Naming her estate after her grandmother, Marie Courtin, Dominique has set out to craft Champagnes which emphasise how her specific terroir can be expressed in a given vintage. Her wines then are single vineyard and single vintage, made with meticulously grown fruit from biodynamically-grown grapes, see no dosage, and sulfur is used sparingly or not at all.

    Concordance is 100% Pinot Noir cuvée harvested from massale selection vines 50 years in age from a single, east facing parcel on Kimmeridgian limestone soils. Fermentation occurs in tank with natural yeasts, and sees no addition of sulfur.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2015 Extra Brut Concordance Sans Soufre (100% Pinot Noir) is bright, precise and absolutely gorgeous. Dominique Moreau seems to have really dialed in her approach over the last few years. I can’t remember tasting a Concordance with this much translucent energy. Pinot Noir in the Aube has rarely been this weightless and nuanced. The purity of the flavors is just striking. No dosage. Disgorged: April, 2019. Drink 2020 - 2027.
    93 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Martini & Rossi Asti Spumante
    Piedmonte, ITALY
    $16. 99
    Bottle
    $203.88 Dozen
    ABV: 7%
    Closure: Cork

    Martini Rossi Asti Spumante is a fruity sparkling wine made from Moscato Bianco grapes grown in the heart of the prestigious Italian D.O.G.C. area. This sparkling wine is a great partner to fruity desserts, pastry and ice cream. Serve well chilled. 7%Alc./Vol.

    No tasting notes available.

    • 91
    2018 McGlashan Wallington Estate Chardonnay Pinot Noir Sparkling
    Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $27. 99
    Bottle
    $335.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: 2 - 3 Years (2020-2021)
    ABV: 12.6%
    Closure: Cork
    A blend of 48% Chardonnay and 52% Pinot Noir. A creamy white mousse sits over a salmon pink tinged base which is threaded by a delicate stream of bubbles. Aromas of winter strawberries, cherries and peach intermingle with baked bread and yeast lees nuances. Dry and crisp the palate is subtlety flavoured with fruity winter strawberries and pears over yeast lees and light toast. Brisk finish with a medium length aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 12.6%
    • 94
    • 95
    2016 Meadowbank Blanc De Blancs
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)
    ABV: 11.5%
    Closure: Cork

    This is Meadowbank's inaugural Blanc de Blancs which is sourced from the Far Horse Vineyard block, which lies close to vines used for the Meadowbank Chardonnay. While the latter vines are exposed north, the Blanc de Blancs parcel faces south in a slightly cooler microclimate. The fruit was hand-picked and whole-cluster-pressed, and the juice fermented in old barriques for three months. Disgorged earlier this year, the wine spent five years in bottle before release and has a low, two grams per litre dosage.
    A heady white mousse slowly evaporates to reveal a pale straw coloured base that’s finely threaded by a very persistent and exceptionally fine bead. Aromas of citrus, light baked bread and yeast lees are trailed by green apple and chalky oyster shell like notes. Sculptured and tense the palate carries vibrant citrus and fine yeast lees flavours over subtle notions of green apple and oyster shell. Dry chalk tinged finish with crisp acidity and an elegant, mouth watering aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 11.5%

    Other Reviews....
    What a great show! And what do I know about fizzy wine? Not a lot. Generally I only drink Champagne Jérôme Prévost, maybe twice a year at that. Still,I reckon I can turn my hand to anything, if I try. There’s 100 cases of this released now, with 50 held back for a future LD offering, or whatever.
    Very fine style, complex too. I’m thinking salted almond, brioche, oyster shell, lemon barley. Gentle bubbles, offering a little surf and foam, quiet, and soothing, dry, saltine crackers, again the lemon barley thing, has some grip too, with a dry chalky finish of excellent length. Really good Tasmanian sparkling. Complexity and verve. Drink 2022 - 2027.
    95 Points
    Gary Walsh - The Wine Front (May 2022)

    • 93
    Mitchelton The Bend Sparkling Shiraz
    Central Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $15. 99
    Bottle
    $191.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2020-2024)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Crown Seal
    Pours with a foamy purple tinged mousse that holds well over a dark red black base that has a very fine bead flowing through it. Heady blackberry, liquorice and dark plum aromas morph into toasty vanilla, choc mint, earth and spice. Rich and creamy in its feel, the palate has ripe dark plum, blackberry and liquorice fruits married to toasty vanillin oak and subtle spicy earth nuances. Finishes dry with some focused acidity and a medium to long aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 14.5%
    2015 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Rose Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $164. 99
    Bottle
    $1979.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    This rich, tawny-hued sparkling rosé is sleek and shaped by well-honed acidity, with a plushness to the mousse as this carries flavors of plum skin, macerated raspberry, toasted almond, pink grapefruit zest and oyster shell. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Disgorged February 2022. Drink now through 2030.
    93 points
    Alison Napjus - Wine Spectator

    Moet & Chandon Petite Liqueur (200ml)
    Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    ABV: 18%

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such may have some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.

    Product is around 40 years old. While it is potentially drinkable, Nicks does not guarantee the condition of the liquid inside.

    Moët & Chandon Petite Liqueur is a refined product that blends the house's renowned champagne with Marc de Champagne, a spirit made from distilled grape pomace, offering a distinctive depth and richness. Originally created as a smooth and effervescent liqueur, the balance of champagne and Marc de Champagne may have evolved over time, possibly shifting from a lighter, more delicate profile to a richer, more complex one. The unique process of blending champagne with Marc de Champagne, followed by the transfer of materials from the Champagne region to Bordeaux for final production, adds an intriguing layer of craftsmanship. This collaboration between the Champagne and Bordeaux regions has likely influenced the character of the liqueur, with changes in the maturation process or adjustments in the blend potentially enhancing its depth and sweetness over the years. What remains consistent, however, is the luxurious nature of the product—an elegant fusion of champagne tradition and refined distillation.

    • 94
    • 93
    • 93
    • 94
    2015 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    A blend of 44% Pinot Noir, 32% Chardonnay and 24% Pinot Meunier aged for 6 years on lees. A frothy head slowly dissipates over a pale straw coloured base. Pale gold tinged edges with a very fine bead showing good persistence through its core. Citrus, baked bread, yeast lees and brioche scents make their way out of the glass with ample intensity. Hints of honeyed cashew and ginger lend further complexity. Vibrant pear and citrus fruits are intermeshed with baked apple, yeast lees, almond and chalk characters. Finishes dry, faintly creamed and invigorating.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    A firm, focused Champagne, with a pleasing crunchiness to the fine mousse. Reveals a toasty edge, with notes of smoke, brioche and vanilla showing up front, before transitioning to underscore and enrich flavors of nectarine and plum fruit, salted almond, lemon curd and anise as they expand through the creamy finish. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Disgorged February 2022. Drink now through 2033.
    94 Points
    Wine Spectator

    The 2015 Extra-Brut Grand Vintage is a terrific choice for drinking now, as it is so expressive. Baked apple tart, spice, lemon confit, marzipan and a hint of toastiness are front and center. Open-knit and engaging, the 2015 is a Champagne of pure and total pleasure. Drink 2022-2030.
    93 Points
    Antonio Galloni – Vinous

    Produced from 44% Pinot Noir, 32% Chardonnay, and the rest Meunier, the 2015 Champagne Grand Vintage Extra Brut pours a medium golden-straw hue and is opulent on opening with toasty aromas of baked bread, spiced orange peel, marzipan, and dried peach. Full-bodied, with a pillowy mouthfeel, it has a very nice balance of ripe fruit while retaining freshness Silky textured, its notes of citrus oils and orchard fruits last through the finish. This elegant and warming wine would do fantastically well moving into these cooler fall and winter months. Although I personally enjoy where this is for drinking now, it should hold up over the coming 6-8 years. Disgorged February 2022. Drink 2023-2031.
    93 points
    Audrey Frick - JebDunnuck.com

    • 94
    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne (200ml)
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Pours with a creamy white mousse that holds well eventually dissipating to reveal a base wine colour of pale straw with pale gold edges. Very fine and profuse bead. Good aromatics with baked bread melding into yeast lees characters and hints of toast followed by citrus and brioche notes. Flavours of freshly baked bread intermingle with oily toast like characters and yeast less underpinned by subtle cashew and citrus nuances. A dry creamy like finish is counterpointed by good crisp acidity. Long oily baked bread, toast, yeast lees and subtle cashew aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc 12%

    Tasting Notes sourced from Moet & Chandon:
    The Moet & Chandon Non Vintage is a blend of wines from a specific year, with the addition of different reserve wines from earlier years (the precise proportions vary from year to year) in order to achieve consistent quality and character. Moet & Chandon sources grapes from nearly all the different classified vineyards of Champagne which greatly assists to achieve this consistent quality.A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot and Pinot Meunier. Pale yellow colour with a tinge of green. The nose is delicately vinous, with an initial aroma of both lime and vine blossom. The palate shows predominantly Pinot characteristics. Light, persistent sparkle. Very ample in the mouth, with a discreet finish. Essentially an aperitif, but is also a good accompaniment to fish.

    • 93
    • 93
    2013 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $115. 00
    Bottle
    $1380.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2021-2027)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Made from a blend of 41% Chardonnay, 38% Pinot Noir and 21% Pinot Meunier. A frothy white mousse overlays a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold edges and is threaded by a fine, persistent bead. Citrus and oily toast top notes are trailed by notions of almond and yeast lees. Brisk and tightly knit, racy flavours of citrus, toast and yeast lees meld into subtle almond characters. Dry chalk tinged finish with crisp acidity and an energetically sculptured aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    A creamy-textured Champagne with fine bubbles that are numerous and textural. It’s full-bodied and rounded with lovely bread dough and cooked apple, as well as just a hint of stone and mineral. It’s long, dry and satisfying at the finish. 41% chardonnay and 38% pinot noir, the rest pinot meunier. Drink now.
    93 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 94
    • 93
    2012 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Rose Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2020-2026)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A buoyant mousse dissipates to reveal a salmon pink coloured base that’s finely threaded by a persistent bead. Jumping out of the glass are notions of cherry, strawberry and blood orange fruits that are pitted against yeast lees and light baked bread notes. Quite full and voluminous in the mouth, the palate is presented with a concentrated flavour profile of cherry, raspberry and wild strawberry fruits which intermingle with notions of yeast lees. Finishes dry and crisp with a chalky mineral character flowing through to the long aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Expressive flavors of dried cherry, singed orange peel and red licorice are backed by a firm spine of acidity in this racy rosé Champagne, which is tightly meshed and balanced, with the creamy mousse carrying hints of salty mineral and grilled nut on the mouthwatering finish. Disgorged October 2018. Drink now through 2032.
    93 points
    Wine Spectator

    • 94
    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne Methuselah (6000ml)
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $1799. 00
    Bottle
    $21588.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2017-2021)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Pours with a creamy white mousse that holds well eventually dissipating to reveal a base wine colour of pale straw with pale gold edges. Very fine and profuse bead. Good aromatics with baked bread melding into yeast lees characters and hints of toast followed by citrus and brioche notes. Flavours of freshly baked bread intermingle with oily toast like characters and yeast less underpinned by subtle cashew and citrus nuances. A dry creamy like finish is counterpointed by good crisp acidity. Long oily baked bread, toast, yeast lees and subtle cashew aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc 12%

    Tasting Notes sourced from Moet & Chandon:
    The Moet & Chandon Non Vintage is a blend of wines from a specific year, with the addition of different reserve wines from earlier years (the precise proportions vary from year to year) in order to achieve consistent quality and character. Moet & Chandon sources grapes from nearly all the different classified vineyards of Champagne which greatly assists to achieve this consistent quality.A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot and Pinot Meunier. Pale yellow colour with a tinge of green. The nose is delicately vinous, with an initial aroma of both lime and vine blossom. The palate shows predominantly Pinot characteristics. Light, persistent sparkle. Very ample in the mouth, with a discreet finish. Essentially an aperitif, but is also a good accompaniment to fish.

    • 94
    • 96
    • 92
    • 93
    2012 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne Extra Brut
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2019-2027)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Produced from a blend of 41% Chardonnay, 33% Pinot Noir and 25% Meunier. A fine satiny mousse shows good hold over a pale straw coloured base that has flecks of pale gold around the edges. The bead is exceptionally fine and persistent. Pear, citrus and toast notes show good intensity melding into yeast lees, roasted almond and faint dried honey. The palate combines tension with ample richness and finesse. Sculptured in its mouthfeel, flavours of baked bread, citrus and oily toast characters sit over subtle dried honey and roasted almond. Dry chalk tinged finish with refreshing acidity and a medium to long aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 6-8 years.
    Alc. 12.5% 

    Other Reviews….
    Disgorged in February 2018 with five grams per liter dosage, Moët's 2012 Extra Brut Grand Vintage is showing well, unfurling in the glass with an expressive bouquet of ripe yellow orchard fruit, peaches, toasted nuts, warm bread and honeycomb. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, broad and fleshy, with a tangy but ripe core of fruit, nicely integrated acids and a pinpoint mousse, concluding with an attractively fruit-driven finish. The 2012 reflects both the concentration of the vintage and Moët's push for riper fruit, and it is already quite accessible. Drink 2018-2028.
    92 points
    William Kelley – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate 

    Rich, with toasty notes of grilled nut and blackberry tart, this creamy Champagne is finely knit and vibrant, enlivened by a firm frame of citrusy acidity and a minerally underpinning. Drink now through 2027.
    93 points
    Wine Spectator

    The scale of 15,000 pickers arriving each day during harvest is awesome, and this wine proves it is not at the expense of quality. The blend (55% chardonnay, 41% pinot noir, 26% pinot meunier) was disgorged in February 2018 with a very low dosage of 5g/l, and is a lovely wine, with perfect fruit weight, balance and length.
    96 points
    James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion

    • 95
    • 93
    2008 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 8 Years (2021-2024)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Blanc 2008 is an assemblage of 40% Chardonnay, 37% Pinot Noir and 23% Pinot Meunier. Excellent frothy white mousse that shows good hold sitting over a pale straw/pale gold coloured base wine. The bead is extremely fine and very profuse. On the nose roasted almond and yeasty scents are intermixed with toasty citrus, brioche and cashew. Richer and fuller than the 2008 Veuve Clicquot Vintage the palate sports a flavoursome profile of baked bread and yeast lees intermeshed with fresh citrus fruits over some cashew and subtle toasty characters. Vibrant finish with a creamy yet very refined mouthfeel. The long aftertaste a combination of baked bread, yeast lees, citrus, cashew and a light toastiness.
    Cellar 5-8 years.
    Alc 12.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Sleek, with a smoky underpinning and a lively, detailed bead, this firm version offers flavors of black currant, toast, lemon curd and honey. Lingering finish. Drink now through 2030.
    93 points
    Wine Spectator

    • 93
    2006 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2019-2020)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The 2006 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage is made up of 42% Chardonnay, 39% Pinot Noir and 19% Pinot Meunier. Excellent white creamy mousse that shows good hold with a very pale straw base wine colour. Profuse very fine bead. The nose shows good intensity with citrus and toast aromas combining over some baked bread, cashew and yeast lees. Refined and elegant the palate has flavours of toast and biscuity yeast lees followed by some subtle baked bread and citrus. Clean dry finish with moderate creaminess. Aftertaste of toasty yeast lees, baked bread and light citrus.
    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Moët's 2006 Brut Grand Vintage is beautiful, finessed and expressive. Smoke, slate, apricot and pastry notes emerge as the wine gradually unfolds. Rich and textured on the palate, yet beautifully supported by veins of minerality, the 2006 is simply impeccable from the very first taste. The richer, honeyed notes typical of Chardonnay in this vintage are particularly evident today while the Meunier, which has higher acidity, keeps things bright, although it plays a lesser part in the overall blend than in years past. The 2006 is 42% Chardonnay, 39% Pinot Noir and 19% Pinot Meunier. Dosage is 5 grams/liter. Drink 2014-2026.
    92 points
    Antonio Galloni – Vinous

    Sleek acidity trims the sails of this otherwise rich and expansive Champagne, keeping it finely balanced and racy throughout. Flavors of roasted hazelnut, crushed blackberry, ripe apricot, honey and ginger biscuit glide on the silky palate to a saline-tinged finish. Drink now through 2029.
    94 points
    Wine Spectator

    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Rose Champagne (375ml)
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $52. 99
    Bottle
    $635.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork
    No tasting notes available.
    Moet & Chandon Ice Imperial Magnum (1500ml)
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $220. 00
    Bottle
    $2640.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Currently trending and highly sought after, Moet & Chandon Ice Imperial has been released specifically to up market resorts and restaurants around the world.

    These stylish white bottles offer luxury summer drinking. The first and only Champagne of its kind, Moet Ice is designed to be enjoyed over ice, perfectly refreshing on warm summer days and balmy nights. Remaining true to the Moet & Chandon house style, there is a bright fruitiness, seductive palate and elegant maturity.

    The wine is a "Demi-Sec" and flavours are intentionally bold and deep, and the addition of ice cubes ensures a correct balance on the palate. Components of this blend are 40-50% Pinot Noir, 30-40% Pinot Meunier and 10-20% Chardonnay.
    Limited stocks. 

    • 95
    2009 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $110. 00
    Bottle
    $1320.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2018-2024)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Produced from a blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 36% Chardonnay and 14% Pinot Meunier. There’s excellent buoyancy to the lacy mousse. A pale straw coloured base is threaded by a stream of tiny bubbles that shows great persistence. Citrusy yeast lees aromas intermix with toast, lightly roasted almonds and subtle bready notes. Rich, elegant and creamy, mouthfilling flavours of citrus, pear and toast overlay yeast lees and lightly honeyed almonds. Dry crisp finish with a lingering aftertaste of yeast lees, baked bread, citrus, toast and cashew.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne (12 Litre - Balthazar)
    Champagne,
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Tasting Notes sourced from Moet & Chandon

    The Moet & Chandon Non Vintage is a blend of wines from a specific year, with the addition of different reserve wines from earlier years (the precise proportions vary from year to year) in order to achieve consistent quality and character. Moet & Chandon sources grapes from nearly all the different classified vineyards of Champagne which greatly assists to achieve this consistent quality.A blend of Chardonnay, Pinot and Pinot Meunier. Pale yellow colour with a tinge of green. The nose is delicately vinous, with an initial aroma of both lime and vine blossom. The palate shows predominantly Pinot characteristics. Light, persistent sparkle. Very ample in the mouth, with a discreet finish. Essentially an aperitif, but is also a good accompaniment to fish.

    • 94
    2021 Mollydooker Miss Molly Sparkling Shiraz
    South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Zork

    Fruit was sourced from McLaren Vale and Langhorne Creek with the resultant wine fermented and matured in American oak of which 45% was new. A fluffy purple tinged mousse holds well over a deep black dark red coloured base that has an exceptionally fine bead coursing through it. Ripe blackberry and dark chocolate aromas fill the nostrils followed by some toasty vanillin oak and earthy mocha notes. Rich and mouth filling, the weighty palate showcases Mollydooker’s trademark exuberance with ripe blackberry, liquorice and dark chocolate flavours melding into a toasty vanillin oak, earthy mocha and spice back drop. Opulently textured it concludes long and decadent.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 14.5%

    • 90
    2016 Mollydooker Miss Molly Sparkling Shiraz
    South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2017-2022)
    ABV: 15%
    Closure: Zork

    A heady purple tinged mousse has great staying power over a deep dark red black coloured base. Very fine bead showing good persistence. Intense ripe blackberry, liquorice and black plum aromas fill the nostrils underpinned by chocolatey oak and vanillin spice. This is a big heavy sparkling red and despite being chilled you still get a feeling of heat on the finish which tends to unbalance things a tad. Mouthfilling flavours of ripe blackberries, liquorice and black plums hold court over vanillin oak and spice. Dryish finish with a hint of youthful firmness to the tannins. Finishes a touch short with an aftertaste of blackberries, liquorice, dark plums and spicy vanillin oak.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 15%

    • 98
    Montaudon Classe M. Brut Champagne - Pre-Arrival Offer
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Champagne Montaudon is one of the most exciting and individual of Champagne Houses. The cellars are located in Reims, close to Reims Cathedral and are exported throughout Europe, USA, Japan, South Africa and now Australia. The Montaudon is still owned by the founding family, a rare thing in Champagne, which has become the home of Corporate Giants. In 1891 Auguste Louis Montaudon came to Champagne as a cellar manager. Some years later, his son Auguste Eugene, decided to create a Champagne House which danced its way to success in the 1920ís and was later to become the wine found in the top Caberet Clubs of Paris. It is said that in 1936, the mystical star of Revue Negre and Folies Bergeres, Josephine Baker signed a contract with Montaudon to supply her Caberet Clubs with first class Champagne. The rest, as they say, is history. Whilst the buildings which house the operations of Montaudon are historic, the wine making facilities are very modern, with a number of small stainless steel vats available to ferment and store the base wines until they are required for blending.
    Nicks Wine Merchants / Vintage Direct have managed to secure the marketing and distribution rights for this outstanding Champagne for the Australian Market. The quality of Montaudon is exceptional as can be attested by the comparative tasting results conducted by Wine Spectator Magazine in the USA. From our own tastings the results have been very impressive, particularly so when one considers the price points compared with other much larger Champagne Houses.

    The ultimate expression of Champagne as perceived by the Montaudon Family, the "Class M" out-rated the 1996 Louis Roederer Cristal ($250.00) and the 1993 Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill ($100.00) in a recent Wine Spectator tasting. The wine is beautifully presented in 19th Century replica bottles. Again, as with all the Montaudon, the Champagne pours visually to perfection with creamy mousse and extremely fine and persistent bead. Superbly refined nose of cashews, biscuit, yeast lees and subdued creme caramel end note. The palate texture is exceptionally creamy, with a sense of refinement only ever found in the top cuvees of the best producers. There is a remarkable length and persistence of flavour here, with honeycomb , yeast lees and biscuit emerging. Superb length and balance with exceptionally long aftertaste.
    Cellar 3-4 years (2007-2008)
    Alc./Vol.12%

    Conditions of Montaudon Champagne Pre-Arrival offer: The Montaudon Champagnes are being sold on a pre-arrival basis with payment in full required with your order. The wines will be arriving in Australia mid-December 2004 - early January 2005 subject to the timing of customs clearance. Stocks are limited and subject to availability at time of purchase. Offer expires November 30th 2004. Minimum order is 3x750ml. bottles. Orders which are less than A$200 in value may attract a delivery fee unless they form part of a larger order. Delivery of mixed cases of wines ordered which include this wine will be held back until stocks arrive. If applicable, delivery & insurance charges will be added to your order at time of order placement.

    • 92
    • 94
    2013 Moorilla Muse Methode Traditionelle Extra Brut
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $44. 99
    Bottle
    $539.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)
    ABV: 11.7%
    Closure: Cork
    Pours with a very fine frothy white mousse that shows good hold over a pale straw coloured base that has an exceptionally fine and persistent bead flowing through it. Aromas of pear and apple interact with yeast lees, brioche and subtle dried honey notes. Light and airy in its feel with brisk acidity underpinning pear, citrus, yeast lees, green apple and chalky mineral flavours. Dry crisp finish with an elegant racy medium length aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 11.7%

    Other Reviews….
    Red apples in a sunset of aldehyde, honey and citrus. It's zippy with acidity, but there's plenty more besides. Excellent structure, flavour and length. Yet more bottle age won't do it any harm. Drink by 2024.
    94 points
    Campbell Mattinson – James Halliday’s The Wine Companion
    • 92
    Morris Rutherglen Sparkling Shiraz Durif
    Rutherglen, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Rich, Rutherglen Shiraz is ideally suited to producing sparkling 'Burgundy' style wines. However, Morris have not traditionally produced one - their first vintage being 1988. The early wines used a heavy dose of Durif making the wines excessively inky, however, the current release uses the grape variety judiciously allowing it to contribute to colour and flavour. Deep crimson purple colour. Ripe plummy, blackberry and spice aromas which are transformed into a generous mouthfilling palate. The contribution of the Durif is subtle, yet evident, giving the wine added depth. Soft finish. A must for the Christmas Table.

    Other Reviews....
    An inky purple hue; while it has a riff of dark fruit, this is savoury with earthy aromas, charcuterie, aniseed and charcoal. No shortage of tannins, but all contained and finishes super dry.
    92 points
    Jane Faulkner - James Halliday's Wine Companion (Jan 2020)

    • 94
    • Organic
    Mouzon Leroux L'atavique Tradition Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $130. 00
    Bottle
    $1560.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Sébastien Mouzon is a dynamic, ninth-generation grower producing exciting and terroir driven wines at his domaine, Mouzon-Leroux. Based in the Grand Cru village of Verzy, Sébastien farms eight hectares of vines spread across 60 separate plots. While much of the vineyard area is planted to Pinot Noir, there are additional small parcels planted to the remaining six varietals legally allowed in Champagne; Chardonnay, Arbane, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Meunier and Petit Meslier. Aiming to bring further translation of site to his wines, Sébastien works with very low yields in his certified organic vineyards, with fermentation and élevage then completed in a mix of steel tanks and older 500L barrels. Sulphur additions are also kept to a minimum.

    L'atavique is a Pinot Noir dominant cuveé using 100% Grand Cru fruit with 50% from a base vintage, and a roughly even split of the previous two vintages for the balance. Disgorged after 3 years on lees with extra brut dosage of under 3g/L.

    Other Reviews....
    From 2018 (50%) with the two previous vintages – this is the disgorgement. It’s 65% pinot noir and 35% chardonnay. Organic (certified). Disgorged Jan22.
    Toasty scents, touches of stone fruit, fresh and dried, chicken stock, amontillado. Very pristine in the palate yet also imbued with nutty savouriness and chicken stock notes in tow. So deliciously briny! Ripe apple flavours, some nectarine too. Rich in a way but also refreshing. More potent. Has an energy and bent. Drink 2023 - 2027.
    94 Points
    Mike Bennie - The Wine Front

    Please note: Disgorgement dates can vary. Please contact the store if you would like to check which disgorgement is currently available.

    • 94
    Mr Riggs Battle Axe Sparkling Shiraz
    McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2019-2020)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Cork

    This solid sparkling red builds its base with fruit from mature Mclaren Vale Shiraz vines combined with a tiny batch of older Grenache that adds both lift and spice. This is then finished off with a small batch of fortified vintage Shiraz from Ben’s prized Piebald Vineyard, which brings the subtle sweetness to an otherwise rich and complex wine.

    Pours with a good creamy purple tinged mousse which once dissipated reveals a bright dark red base wine colour with a very fine and profuse bead. Pronounced aromas of ripe blackberries and liquorice are overlaid by some dark chocolate with vanillin oak end notes. Rich luscious flavours of ripe blackberries and dark chocolate are to the fore followed by some dark plum, liquorice and vanillin oak nuances. Creamy texture finishing relatively dry with a medium to long aftertaste of dark plum, dark chocolate, liquorice and vanillin oak.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc 13%

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French Champagne is not an everyday luxury for many. Thankfully, over the past few decades the production of Sparkling Wine in Australia has made a quantum leap, and to be fair, much of the increased quality is because of the presence of French know-how. The most prestigious and expensive technique for Sparkling wine production has become known as 'Methode Champenoise' (fermentation in the bottle). As we have all learnt to our joy, sparkling wines produced by Methode Champenoise, as opposed to other techniques, invariably result in a superior drink. But it is a very difficult wine to make - costly, time consuming, even risky.

The two key grape varieties employed are Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, though warmer regions may favour others. Chardonnay gives life, acid, freshness and aging potential to methode champenoise, though care must be taken to avoid excess maturity, particularly in warmer climates, which can produce a dominant, aggressively varietal character. Warm climate Chardonnay cuvees may suffer from a narrow flavour profile, high "melony" aroma notes and lack of freshness, liveliness and length. Additionally, rich fertile soils can cause this variety to produce foliage and grassy aromas. When combined with Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay has a greater capacity to age harmoniously and for a longer time. Pinot Noir adds depth, complexity, backbone, strength, and fullness (what the French call "carpentry") to methode champenoise wines but is seldom used by itself, even in Blanc de Noirs. Contact us directly for any assistance… We taste and rate many of the bubblies before you do, meaning we help take the guesswork out of your online purchase. Call our us today on 1800 069 295 should you have any questions about our collection or click here to learn more about Sparkling wine production.