1048 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.

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    • 95
    2016 Louis Roederer Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $160. 00
    Bottle
    $1920.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 8 Years (2025-2033)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Rich and creamy yet airy and agile in it’s feel, this a wonderfully complex Champagne.

    Fine pillowy mousse with a straw pale gold tinged base that’s threaded by a nibble stream of tiny bubbles. Wonderfully aromatic sniff with intense baked bread, yeast lees, pear and brioche scents engulfing the nostrils followed by some honeyed cashew, citrus and roasted almond notes. Rich and creamy yet airy and agile in it’s feel, the palate features mouth filling flavours of baked bread, pear and yeast lees with notions of honeyed cashew, citrus, almond and brioche characters extending across the back half. Crisp, mouth watering acidity with a dry, expansive finish.
    Drink over the 6-8 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews….
    Complex nose of restrained strawberries and lemon zest, with macerated flowers and shortbread. Full body and plenty of concentration, with pinprick mousse, long and chewy, integrated acidity and amazing length. Pinot noir and chardonnay. Drink or hold.
    96 Points
    JamesSuckling.com

    The 2016 Champagne Vintage Brut is the new release and is composed of 70% Pinot Noir from Verzy and the rest Chardonnay from Chouilly. A slightly richer golden straw hue, it has a floral bouquet on the nose and is a very pretty vintage of this wine aromatically. It’s sappy with lemon confit and is salty throughout the palate, revealing the weight of the Pinot Noir but retaining wonderful freshness. This lovely wine is going to take some time to open aromatically, but it’s going to be worth the wait. Drink it over the coming 15 years. It’s a going to be a stunning wine for pairings. 7 gram per liter dosage in this wine and in the collection. Drink 2024-2040.
    95 Points
    Audrey Frick – JebDunnuck.com

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    • 97
    • 96
    • 95
    • 98
    • 96
    2015 Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $475. 00
    Bottle
    $5700.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The Champagne of Kings, this somewhat mythical Champagne has a cult following amongst pop and rap stars. Despite the hype this brings it never to fails to live up to it’s legendary status with wine critics, who consistently lavish it with high praise.

    Other Reviews....
    If the 2014 vintage was especially open and demonstrative, the 2015 Cristal is going to require more patience. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of citrus oil, crisp stone fruits, white flowers, crushed mint and subtle hints of buttery pastry, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, with a deep, concentrated and rather introverted core of fruit framed by chalky extract and animated by a pretty pinpoint mousse. This is a serious, vinous Champagne that has considerable substance to age and may well evolve along the lines of the lovely 1985. Drink 2027-2050.
    95+ points
    William Kelley – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

    I have tasted the 2015 Cristal three times so far. Those tastings paint a portrait of a complex Champagne that is still finding its center. Tasted at the maison, the 2015 is rich, dense and explosive, with tremendous textual intensity and also a good bit of energy to back it up. Citrus confit, spice, ginger, chalk and dried flowers abound in a Champagne endowed with tremendous aromatic presence in a style that offers notable richness but in a lighter style than vintages such as 2012. There is a bit of the savoriness that is such a signature of the year, but it is nicely integrated into the wine’s fabric. Two later tastings in my office strongly suggest that 2015 has already started to shut down a bit, which is a shame, as it may be hard to read for some time to come. The 2015 is a rare Cristal in this tasting (the other is 2002) that incorporates all 45 plots within the estate. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: November 2022. Drink 2025-2040.
    96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    For the warm and dry vintage this has tremendous freshness and elegance. The complex nose of citrus blossom, mint, lemon and lime zest opens up slowly as this aerates in the glass. The wine’s ample structure is still quite firm, which is a vintage characteristic, the mousse very fine but also very lively for an eight-year-old champagne. Cristal fans will love this as it is, but a year or two more in the bottle will do a lot for the very long mineral finish of this youthful masterpiece. A cuvee of 60% pinot noir and 40% chardonnay, picked from all 45 Cristal vineyard plots. Tasted at the Cristal vertical tasting at the champagne house on July 6th, 2023. Drink from release.
    97 points
    James Suckling

    I had the opportunity to taste the 2015 Champagne Cristal twice, both at the house in Reims as well as at my home office. On both occasions, the wine offered a terrific balance of decadence and notable freshness for this vintage, which was highly expressive on opening. The release reveals layered custardy notes of lemon balm, incense, apricot, and hazelnut. Medium to full-bodied, the mousse is fluffy and rounded out beautifully through the palate. Round and approachable, it has a well-managed richness along with underlying savory sapidity and saline to keep this going over the coming three or more decades, with a chalky tannin structure to support it. Drink 2025-2050. This was only the second vintage where Mr. Lécaillon opted to source from all of the 45 plots dedicated to Cristal. (Since then, he chose to draw from even more plots for the 2018.) Drink 2023-2053.
    96 points
    Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com

    This mouthwatering Champagne has an ethereal quality, with a frame of chiseled acidity and focused precision to the pointillisme-like, vibrant mousse. Yet this shows depth and generous expression, with the finely spun notes of patisserie apple and blackberry fruit opening beautifully on the palate and through the minerally finish, with notes of grated ginger, blood orange granita, salted Marcona almond and anise. Drink now through 2035.
    96 points
    Alison Napjus - Wine Spectator

    From vineyards that are run organically, this iconic Champagne's latest iteration is as beautiful as ever. Textured, with a mineral undertow, the wine is just beginning to soften and show a balanced maturity. Drink this great wine now.
    98 points
    Roger Voss - Wine Enthusiast

    There are few Champagne houses over the last decade that have performed as strongly as Roederer. What was always great is now truly exceptional. And in tricky vintages like 2015, meticulous work in the vineyards and serious skill in the cellar come to the fore. This is an imperious Cristal, a cathedral contained in glass, a wine of the kind of beauty and power that haunts dreams.
    97 points
    Nick Ryan - Weekend Australian 2024

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    • 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

    • 94
    Marchand & Burch Cremant de Bourgogne Methode Traditionelle Brut Blanc
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2019-2022)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork
    Produced from a blend of 60% Chardonnay, 20% Gamay, 10% Pinot Noir and 10% Aligote. A frothy white mousse sits over a straw coloured base with pale gold edgings. Very fine and profuse bead. An inviting nose of pear, baked bread and yeast lees shows good richness with citrus and toast notes also evident. Quite creamy and full in the mouth, the palate has a rich flavour profile of yeasty baked bread, citrusy apple and pear fruit with undertones of toast. Good refreshing acidity on the finish with a medium to long aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 12%
    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    • Biodynamic
    • Preservative Free
    Marie Courtin Presence (V18) Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $170. 00
    Bottle
    $2040.00 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.

    Présence is a unique blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Blanc from the 2018 harvest. Fermentation and ageing occurs in epoxy lined tank, and this wine sees no sulfur before being disgorged in January 2021 with no dosage.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2018 Extra Brut Présence Sans Soufre is a blend of Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay, made with no added sulfur and bottled with no dosage. It's a risky approach that Dominique Moreau has really dialed in over the last few years. Bright acids and sweet, floral aromatics cut through a core of citrus and orchard fruit. There are none of the hard edges or angular contours in the 2018. It's a wine that hits so many high notes, starting with its sheer deliciousness. No dosage. Disgorged: July, 2021. Drink 2022 - 2030.
    95 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

    • 90
    • 90
    Mezza di Mezzacorona Glacial Italian Extra Dry Sparkling
    Dolomiti, ITALY
    $19. 99
    Bottle
    $239.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    A fruity Italian Sparkling with a crisp, refreshing finish.

    The vineyards of Mezzacorona span the majestic Italian Dolomites, running from Lake Garda to the foothills of the towering mountains of the Südtirol. This Sparkling is made in the same method as Prosecco from a blend of 60% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Bianco and 10% Muller Thurgau.
    A buoyant mousse fades into a pale straw coloured base that has hints of green around the edges and a fine steady stream of bubbles. Peach and ripe apple aromas are to the fore with some quince and subtle ginger spice notes also evident. The fruity palate features peach, apple and pear flavours over a delicate quince and citrus back drop. Vivid acidity leads into a crisp, refreshing finish.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews….
    Anyone who has spent time in the Dolomites in Italy will know just how chilly it can get and this delightful sparkler, with its nifty name, evokes just that. From a rarely seen combination of varieties – Chardonnay (60%), Pinot Bianco (30%) and Müller Thurgau (10%) – the vineyards are high altitude, between 400 and 800 metres. Reminiscent of a fine Prosecco in many ways, no doubt as it is also produced by the Charmat method. After destemming, crushing and a soft pressing, fermentation is for ten to eleven days at low temperatures, followed by the best part of half a year maturing on lees. The wine is lemon yellow in colour with notes of peaches and other stonefruits, citrus and crisp apples. Florals and even a hint of the tropicals. A fine minerally background. The exuberant fruit bursts forth, along a soft and supple palate with decent length, through to a lifted finish.
    90 Points
    Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

    • 93
    • 93
    2016 Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The 77th vintage from Moët & Chandon reflects a season of contrasts, with a cool, wet start followed by a warm, dry summer and an unusually late harvest. Cellar Master Benoît Gouez blended 48% Chardonnay, 34% Pinot Noir, and 18% Meunier, aged for six years in Moët’s chalk cellars before release. The result is an Extra Brut Champagne (5g/L dosage) that is radiant and harmonious, offering orchard fruit, citrus, florals, and a mineral edge. Supple in texture yet finely structured, it marries freshness with depth, capturing the grace and poise of a truly distinctive vintage.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Lovely salinity to this Champagne, which has notes of Asian pears, aniseed, preserved lemons, chalk and biscuits. It’s mineral and seamless, with transparency and brightness. Fine bubbles. 48% chardonnay, 34% pinot noir and 18% meunier. 5g/L dosage. Disgorged March 2023. Drink now or hold.
    93 Points
    Claire Nesbitt - JamesSuckling.com

    Grand Vintage 2016 sums up the year's strong suits very neatly – beautiful ripeness without heaviness, compact build and fine ageworthiness. It's a characteristically clean-cut, snappy vintage from Moët, with aromas of fresh baguette, satsuma, sweet red apple and strawberry, all framed with the toasty sourdough aromas typical of the house. There's some concentration and vinosity lurking here, even with the house's delicate style and pinpoint, meringue-soft mousse. This seems destined to be one of the top Moët vintages of late. Drink 2024-2034.
    93 Points
    Tom Hewson - Decanter

    • 94
    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne Magnum (1500ml)
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $218. 00
    Bottle
    $2616.00 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 acheive 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. Esentially an aperitif, but is also a good acompaniment to fish.

    Moet & Chandon Nectar Imperial Champagne
    Champagne,
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork
    Notes sourced from Moet & Chandon

    A succulent and finely balanced wine the finale suggests honey and almonds. The wine is a Demi-Sec (medium dry) with a sugar content of 45 g/ltr.

    Nectar Impérial is blended from the threeChampagne grape varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot and Pinot Meunier. Mid golden yellow colour. Aroma of dried fruits (figs, raisins, apricots) and cinnamon. Pair with Foie Gras, Blue cow’s cheese, desserts based on peaches, dried fruits, mixed nuts or passionfruit.

    • 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
    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne (375ml) - Half Bottle
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $63. 00
    Bottle
    $756.00 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 acheive 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. Esentially an aperitif, but is also a good acompaniment to fish.

    • 90
    • 92
    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Rose Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $120. 99
    Bottle
    $1451.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Composed of 40-50% Pinot Noir (including 10% of red wine), 30-40% Pinot Meunier (of which 10% is red wine) and 10-20% of Chardonnay, including 30% of reserve wine. Rosé Impérial has a spontaneous bouquet of red berries, rose petal, white pepper, and touches of lemon. Fleshy and juicy, the texture is perfectly balanced, moderately weighted, and clear. Finishes long and minty. Dosage: 9g/L.
    90 points
    Decanter.com

    Pouring an electric pink color, the NV Champagne Imperial Brut Rosé is initially a bit reserved aromatically and opens to juicy aromas of apricot, pressed flowers, and fresh berries. Fluffy and inviting, it’s primary with ripe red fruit through the palate and has a clean and supple finish. Easy-drinking and poppy with fruit, it’s marked by notes of late summer fruits without feeling cloying on the finish. Drink it now or over the next few years.
    92 points
    Audrey Frick - JebDunnuck.com

    Moet & Chandon Ice Imperial
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 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. 

    • 94
    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne
    Champagne,
    $69. 99
    Bottle
    $839.88 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
    Moet & Chandon Brut Imperial Champagne Jeroboam (3000ml)
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $835. 00
    Bottle
    $10020.00 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.

    • 91
    Monopole Heidsieck & Co Blue Top Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $69. 99
    Bottle
    $839.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2021-2025)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork
    Fine satiny white mousse overlays a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold tinged edges and a steady stream of fine bubbles flowing through it. Aromas of pear and toast meld with citrus and yeast lees like notes. Rich vanillin pear, dried honey and toast flavours are framed by a creamy textural feel with elements of yeast lees and baked apple lying underneath. Dry crisp finish with a full yet refreshing aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 12%
    • Organic
    2017 Mouzon Leroux L'angelique Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $175. 00
    Bottle
    $2100.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    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.

    The 2017 L'angelique is a 100% Chardonnay cuveé, using fruit from multiple Grand Cru sites in Verzy. These sites are located in the first and second valleys, where the plantings are more heavily skewed to Chardonnay and the soils are rich in clay, limestone, and flint. The base wine matures for 5 years in French oak barrels and is disgorged with extra brut dosage of just 1.5g/L.

    • Organic
    2017 Mouzon Leroux L'ineffable Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $175. 00
    Bottle
    $2100.00 Dozen
    ABV: 11.5%
    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.

    The 2017 L'ineffable is a 100% Pinot Noir cuveé, using fruit from multiple Grand Cru sites in Verzy. These sites are located in the second and third valleys, where the soils can have a heavier clay component but are still rich in the limestone and flint, so signature to the Verzy region. The base wine matures for 5 years in French oak barrels and is disgorged with zero dosage.

    • 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.

    • 95
    • Organic
    • Reduced
    Mouzon Leroux L'incandescent Rose de Saignee Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $160.00
    $145. 00
    Bottle
    $1740.00 Dozen
    ABV: 13%
    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'incandescent is true to its name, displaying a vibrant hue thanks to a short maceration on skins before pressing. The exact time on skins is dependant on taste rather than colour, and varies between 8-36 hours, with the current disgorgement coming in at 22 hours. This is 100% Pinot Noir from the Grand Cru lieu-dit of Les Cumaines, and was vinified entirely in stainless steel, before spending 30 months on lees and disgorged with just 1.5 g/L dosage.

    Other Reviews....
    Says non vintage but is made of 2018 wine only. Pinot noir that sees 16 hours of maceration. Younger gen, but from multi-gen family, producer.
    Very dark coloured and vinous style. Almost like looking at Etna Rosato! Supple texture, almost silky, bubbles are really fine and gentle, almost missing but for lifting the wine brightly and some saline tang alongside all this. Rich, red fruited, some truffle notes, briar and brambles. What a cool wine! Really interesting and complex, is the message. Drink 2023 - 2030.
    95 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.

    • 95
    • Organic
    Mouzon Leroux L'ascendant Solera Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 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'ascendant is a cuvée based on a solera founded with the 2014 L’Atavique, drawn and topped with a 50% ratio each year. It is approximately 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, raised in old oak, before four years on lees and disgorged with extra brut dosage of under 3g/L.

    Other Reviews....
    Based in Verzy, a lesser sung parish of Champagne but one where up and coming producers like this can farm their eight hecatres of organic farmed grapes in peace. Low dosage, low sulphur winemaking too. Solera here, but a younger one started in 2014 – this one contains 2017, 2016 and 2014, with 50% taken out each year to make room for current vintage. Matured in oak and on lees for 48 months. Disgorged Jan22.
    Complex Champagne, lots of amontillado, Parisian almonds, green cashew and a huge woosh of sea spray. Yes thanks. So saline and briny to taste! Wow. Unreal. Some creamy cashew around that, licks of dried apple, toast, faint honey. Beautiful wine with such incredible energy and zestiness. Stunning wine. Drink 2023 - 2030.
    95 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.

    • 91
    Chandon Brut
    South Eastern Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Moet and Chandon established Chandon Australia in 1985 with the purchase of land in the Yarra Valley and the creation of a sparkling winemaking facility. Their sparkling wines have been consistently excellent, which has in part been due to their ability to source a wide variety of grapes from cool climate growing regions from around Australia.

    Retasted 30/09/2010:
    Grapes for this sparkling are sourced from a range of premium cool climate vineyards in the South Eastern Australia, including the Yarra Valley, Strathbogie, the King and Buffalo Valleys in Victoria, and Coonawarra in South Australia. A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir the wine pours with a good white creamy mousse that’s relatively short lived. Pale straw coloured base wine with very fine bead showing excellent persistence. The nose displays aromas of brioche, yeast lees and biscuit with a lemon sherbet like end note. Clean delicate palate flavours of biscuit, yeast lees and lemon with a light toast overlay. Crisp clean finish. Aftertaste of biscuit and lees with some light toast also emerging.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years (2010-2013)
    Alc 12.5%

    Tasting Note: A fuller style N/V Sparkling. Bright straw colour with pale straw hue. Short lived mousse. The bead is quite fine but not profuse. The base wine displays bottle age and multi-cuvee blending. Yeast lees top note, followed by cashew and a hint of hazelnut. Full bodied palate. Creamy texture. Clean finish.
    Cellar 2-3 years (2008-2009)
    Alc/Vol 12.5%


    First Tasted: 9/11/2000. This wine displays a wonderful spectrum of apricot pink hues. Excellent mousse, followed by very fine persistent bead. The nose displays complexity with notes of winter strawberries layered over yeast lees. Creamy texture, with again subtle flavours of strawberries and yeast lees. Clean finish, followed by a very long aftertaste of lees, biscuit and strawberries.
    Drink Now
    Alc/Vol: 13.0%
    Rating: 94

    • 93
    Nadeson Collis Inception
    Henty, Victoria,
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews….
    This has been something that Ray Nadeson, vigneron at Lethbridge, Geelong, has been working on quietly for 13-plus-years. Under some pressure, people asking for the stuff that is, Ray decided to take the wine from a home consumption drink and onto the market. October 2019 is the disgorgement (the first commercial one). Around 75% (chardonnay) is 2017 material that has been in barrel and 25% comes from material blended from a solera (which has chardonnay with pinot noir and pinot meunier dating back to 2003). Fruit comes from Drumborg, Henty. An impressive suite of new sparkling Australian wine.
    Really full, textural and rich sparkling with honey, toast, nutty and very strong saline characters rolling around. Vinous in a way, but full-bodied, a touch of sherbetty lift and light white vinegar tang, a funky kind of fizz with lots of personality, vivacious feel and gentle bubbles. Lots of complexity and interest here. Drink 2020 - 2024.
    93 points
    Mike Bennie – The Wine Front (February 2020)

    • 96
    Nadeson Collis Coda
    Henty, Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews….
    The sparkling wines under this new label are distinct, “if I am doing sparkling wine I am going to do it differently from everyone else, or as much as possible, put balls on the line in terms of style, make it interesting and different” says winemaker Ray Nadeson. This is all solera material that dates back to 2003 though comes mostly from vintages 2006 and onwards, a rolling feast of wine, set up as a single bottling and then disgorged October 2019. A caveat would be, *you must like oxidative, sherry-esque sparkling wine style*s. “Reminds me of Selosse, but of course is wholly its own thing” slipped out of my mouth as I was tasting it. Fruit is from Drumborg in Henty.
    Wow. This is impressive. Wild. So nutty, savoury, whiffs of fino sherry, dried apple, faint farmhouse cider. Rich in the way it sits in the palate but with bright zing of acidity and very fine, light bubbles. Hugely nutty flavours too, more fino, maybe amontillado even, so complex, so interesting, rich, powerful statement in its way and so very delicious. An experience in the glass. Brilliant. Drink 2020 - 2026.
    96 points
    Mike Bennie – The Wine Front (February 2020)

    • 94
    Nicolas Feuillatte Reserve Exclusive Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    A satiny mousse slowly subsides to reveal a pale straw to straw coloured base that has gold tinged edges. Flowing through its core is a fine persistent bead. Rich aromatics of baked bread, yeast lees, dried honey, pear, almond and oily toast like notes engulf the nostrils. Full, rich and expansive the palate is layered with baked bread, yeast lees and pear flavours which are intermeshed with honeyed cashew and oily toast like elements. Creamy textured it finishes dry and crisp with a long enveloping conclusion.
    Alc. 12%

    • 93
    • Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
    Nino Franco Rustico Prosecco
    Valdobbiadene, ITALY
    $41. 99
    Bottle
    $503.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    ABV: 11%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    A fluffy mousse sits well over a pale straw coloured base that has a nimble flow of bubbles coursing through it. On the nose pear and red apple aromas mix with some bready notes, hints of sherbet and quince. Airy in its feel delicious pear and apple fruits caress the palate with a gentle creaminess. Notions of quince and delicate sherbet lurk underneath. Finishes dry with crisp acidity and a refreshing yet soft, lacy aftertaste.
    Alc. 11%

    Other Reviews....
    This lovely sparkler never disappoints. It's fragrant, with delicate scents of white spring flowers and white stone fruits while the dry, refreshing palate offers ripe pear, apple and white peach alongside a hint of fennel seed. An elegant perlage and fresh acidity provide the backdrop.
    94 points
    Wine Enthusiast

    • 92
    • Organic
    • Preservative Free
    Organic Hill Preservative Free Sparkling Brut
    South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Crown Seal

    Certified Organic. Pours with a frothy white mousse that holds well over a pale straw coloured base that has a fine bead flowing through it. Pronounced ripe pear, baked bread and yeast lees scents mix with some subtle honeyed apple like notes. Rich, mouthfilling flavours of ripe pear, baked apple and yeast lees overlay a hazelnut like back drop. Finishes dry and crisp with a generously textured nutty lees aftertaste.
    Alc. 13%

    • 90
    Paracombe A Trio of Pinot Sparkling
    Adelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $26. 99
    Bottle
    $323.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2019-2022)
    ABV: 12.1%
    Closure: Cork
    Made from a blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Pinot Blanc grapes. A frothy mousse sits over a damask pink coloured base that’s finely threaded by an exceptionally persistent stream of tiny bubbles. Aromas of pear, raspberries and strawberries are followed by some light yeast lees notes. Fruity pear, raspberry and strawberry flavours meld into some subtle lees characters and a touch of sherbet on the back palate. Dry refreshing finish with crisp acidity and a medium length aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 12.1%
    • 95
    • 94
    2018 Pascal Agrapart Mineral Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand Cru
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $370. 00
    Bottle
    $4440.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Champagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.

    Mineral is blended from two adjacent vieilles vignes plots (50-plus years old) on the border between Avize and Cramant, where the vine roots plunge straight into the chalky bedrock. The fruit from Le Champ Bouton in Avize fermented in tank, while the component from Les Bionnes in Cramant was vinified in 600-litre oak casks. The wine spent just over five years on lees and was dosed at 3g/L.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2018 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Minéral, disgorged in August 2024 with three grams per liter dosage, introduces the range of vintage wines. Defined by poor soils with just about 50 centimeters of topsoil, it comes from two chalk-based, old-vine parcels: Le Champ Bouton in Avize (vinified in tank) and Les Bionnes in Cramant (vinified in an old 600-liter barrel). “In 2017, we lost about 50% to 60% due to frost, then in 2018 we harvested three times the volume of 2017,” reveals Ambroise Agrapart, who is now making the wines, though his father is still very much present. More generously structured compared to the 2016 yet more precise than the 2017, it wafts from the glass with notes of tangerine zest, green apple and dried white flowers. Nakedly chalky with electric-like acidity, it maintains its reputation as the most tensile wine in the range, capturing the freshness much better than many other wines of this vintage. Drink 2024-2044.
    94+ points
    Kristaps Karklins - Wine Advocate (Dec 20, 2024)

    This must be one of the most beguiling and refined 2018s from the Côte des Blancs, managing to retain a tensile, nuanced and detailed complexity in a year that can sometimes be a bit simple. From some of the estate’s chalkiest, shallowest soils, Minéral impresses by setting white peach, bitter almond and dried flowers in a lithe, persistent frame full of leapfrogging details of slate, umami savour and apricot kernel richness, dancing over a long, detailed finish. Terrific. Drink 2024 - 2028.
    95 points
    Tom Hewson - Decanter

    • 94
    • 95
    2018 Pascal Agrapart Avizoise Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand Cru
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $470. 00
    Bottle
    $5640.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Champagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.

    Avizoise is sourced from old vines of around 50 to 60 years of age, situated in the clay-rich (argilo-calcaire) Coteaux d’Avize vineyards of Les Robarts and Les Gros Yeux. The richer soils and altitude of these neighbouring sites bring more exotic fruit and roundness. The wine aged entirely in 600-litre demi-muid, and bottle fermentation took place under cork rather than crown seal. The 2018 spent just over five years on lees and was dosed at 3 g/L.

    Other Reviews....
    Aged entirely in 600-liter barrels and, for the first time in the history of this cuvée, released without dosage, the 2018 Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Avizoise is nevertheless the most demonstrative vintage wine in Agrapart’s cellar. Crafted from two plots in Avize (Les Robarts and Les Gros Yeux), located just 30 meters from each other and defined by deep, clay-limestone soils, it’s more giving and demonstrative compared to Minéral. Opening in the glass to reveal scents of walnut, pastries and ripe orchard fruit, it is full-bodied, ample and layered with excellent concentration, bright acidity and a long, sapid finish. Les Gros Yeux is one of the plots Agrapart farms with horse, to avoid soil compaction. With Ambroise now in charge of this historic domaine, style remains the same, but he undeniably refines the work. Drink 2024-2044.
    95 points
    Kristaps Karklins - Wine Advocate (Dec 20, 2024)

    While the Minéral cuvée hails from some of the shallowest, poorest soils in Avize, Avizoise always shows some of the roundness and aromatics of the deeper soils of the Gros Yeux and Robarts parcels. It shows a little more of the heat of the year in 2018, too, with fleshy nectarine, lime and white pepper, deep and long with citrus oil yet retaining a beguiling, papery-delicate texture that all of Agrapart's wines seem to find. For a vintage when blanc de blancs can be a little simplistic, this is full of nerve and detail. Drink 2024 - 2030.
    94 points
    Tom Hewson - Decanter

    • 96
    2018 Pascal Agrapart Venus Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand Cru
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $730. 00
    Bottle
    $8760.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Champagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.

    Venus is a very special wine from a very special plot. It comes from one-third of a hectare of vines in the renowned Avize vineyard plot, La Fosse aux Pourceaux. This 0.3-hectare section of La Fosse lies on the chalkiest portion of the slope near the village (contrasting with the more clay-rich soils of the Avizoise cuvée). The vines were planted in 1959 and so are extremely old by Champagne standards. This single parcel cuvée is therefore made in only tiny quantities each year. The wine is named after the Boulonnais mare, Vénus, that first ploughed the vineyard. Venus has more depth, grip and phenolic power than Avizoise, yet it offers plenty of finesse and mineral intensity to match the wine’s power and complexity.

    Other Reviews....
    Disgorged in August 2024 without dosage, the 2018 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Vénus, as always, derives from La Fosse aux Pourceaux, a 0.6-hectare plot of land in Avize planted in 1959, which is farmed solely by man and horse, without the use of heavy mechanical equipment. With texture defined by the maturation in old 600-liter oak barrels, Vénus is more discreet than the broad shouldered Avizoise but more demonstrative than the crystalline Minéral, despite the short distance between La Fosse aux Pourceaux and Le Champ Bouton that defines Minéral. Unfurling from the glass with aromas of honeysuckle, pear, fresh hazelnut and iodine, it is a harmonious wine with an intensely chalky profile, laden with bright acids. More elegant than its 2017 rendition, Agrapart’s desire to capture freshness and precision is very well realized in this edition. Drink 2024-2044.
    96 points
    Kristaps Karklins - Wine Advocate (Dec 20, 2024)

    2019 Pascal Agrapart EXP (Experience) Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand Cru
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $950. 00
    Bottle
    $11400.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Champagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.

    Formerly known as Experience, Agrapart's EXP is utterly unique in the world of Champagne. Given how difficult it is to produce, and the inherent rarity of such a cuvee, demand for EXP around the globe is enormous which is in part reflected in the price of this spectacular Champagne. In 2002, Agrapart sought and (remarkably) received permission from the local authorities to begin experimenting with a small quantity of wine that he wanted to produce without any sugar additions at all; no chaptalisation and no additions for the second fermentation and final dosage. Not using sugar and yeast for the liqueur de tirage (to prompt the second fermentation in the bottle) is actually against the AOC laws, which is why Agrapart needed permission. Instead of sugar, he uses must (grape juice) from the same vineyards that produce the wine, thus enabling him to produce a Champagne that is solely the product of estate-grown grapes.

    This 2019 release is an equal-parts blend from vineyards that contributed to the Avizoise and Minéral cuvées (Les Robarts in Avize and Les Bionnes in Cramant), ‘dosed’ with around 20% of the juice of 2020 from these same vineyards. It is this juice that drives the secondary fermentation in the bottle. Again, no sugar or yeast additions are used for all fermentation, and the wine is never fined or filtered.

    2017 Pascal Agrapart Mineral Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand Cru
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $345. 00
    Bottle
    $4140.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Champagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.

    Mineral is blended from two adjacent vieilles vignes plots (50-plus years old) on the border between Avize and Cramant, where the vine roots plunge straight into the chalky bedrock. The fruit from Le Champ Bouton in Avize fermented in tank, while the component from Les Bionnes in Cramant was vinified in 600-litre oak casks. The wine spent just over five years on lees and was dosed at 3g/L.

    2017 Pascal Agrapart Avizoise Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand Cru
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $450. 00
    Bottle
    $5400.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Champagne Pascal Agrapart is one of the great grower producers, based at the heart of the Cote des Blancs in the grand cru village of Avize. Pascal has the reputation for being a grape grower first and Champagne producer second; a philosophy shared with his son Ambroise who is now in charge of production. Ambroise and the team works an astonishing 70-plus micro-plots in the Cote des Blancs, mostly in Avize, but also in Cramant, Oiry, Oger, Avenay-Val-d’Or, Bergeres-les-Vertus and Mardeuil. All of these parcels are ploughed, and no chemical pesticides, fertilisers or herbicides are ever used. Production is very small, with no more than 6,000 cases produced in any given year.

    Avizoise is sourced from old vines of around 50 to 60 years of age, situated in the clay-rich (argilo-calcaire) Coteaux d’Avize vineyards of Les Robarts and Les Gros Yeux. The richer soils and altitude of these neighbouring sites bring more exotic fruit and roundness. The wine aged entirely in 600-litre demi-muid, and bottle fermentation took place under cork rather than crown seal. The 2017 spent just over five years on lees and was dosed at 3 g/L.

    • 94
    2015 Pascal Agrapart Mineral Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne Grand Cru
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $280. 00
    Bottle
    $3360.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2015 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Minéral Grand Cru is bracing, taut and wiry. Crushed rocks, mint, white pepper and lemon peel drive this blend. The Minéral is especially fine in 2015. There is a bit of youthful austerity, but nothing a few years in bottle can't take care of. The Minéral is one of the finer 2015s I have come across so far. Dosage is 3 grams per liter. Disgorged: May, 2021. Drink 2022 - 2027.
    94 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
    Penfolds x Thienot Brut Rose Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    Minimum 6 bottles
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    This non-vintage Champagne Brut Rosé marks the fourth wine released in Penfolds collaboration series with Champagne House Thiénot. Produced by chef de cave Nicholas Uriel and Penfolds Chief Winemaker Peter Gago, and is composed off 50% Pinot Meunier, 30% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir. The wine spends 4 years on lees with 90% of the blend made up from a 2016 base, with the remaining 10% coming from a 2015 reserve wine.

    Notes from Producer....
    An ascent of (textbook) grenadine fruits – Avec raspberry, redcurrant, blackcurrant and strawberry. Sans pomegranate. And the citrus - pink grapefruit / mandarin marmalade. Inviting, exotic. Balanced, with an overt freshness - crispness up-front, and a delicate dosage imprint on finish. Relaxed acidity, friendly effervescence.

    Other Reviews....
    Rounded, full-bodied, sweet red-berried fruit, as if there were a decent amount of dosage in there, but at the same time it's well balanced. But not at all demanding. A very easy aperitif/reception champagne.
    16 / 20 Points
    Tamlyn Currin - JancisRobinson.com (November 2021)

    • 97
    • 94
    • 95
    • 96
    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    2014 Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $550. 00
    Bottle
    $6600.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Philipponnat's Clos des Goisses vineyard is one of the most famous in all of Champagne, and having been purchased by the Philipponnat family in 1935 it immediately became its crown jewel. The name is taken from the local dialect “Gois” meaning very steep, and the vineyard is the steepest, directly south-facing site in the whole of Champagne with a gradient between 30-45%. Pinot Noir dominates the cuvee with the typical blend two-thirds Pinot and one-third Chardonnay, granting Clos des Goisses with power, structure, and exceptional longevity. Work is done almost entirely by hand, and no insecticides or synthetic herbicides are used in the vineyard. The 2014 release is a blend of 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay, aged on lees for 8 years.

    Note: Product comes without gift box.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2014 Extra-Brut Clos des Goisses, the latest rendition from this walled vineyard, reveals a fresh, energetic character with aromas of pear, peach, licorice, spices, white fruits, spring flowers and menthol. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and chiseled, this is a structured, tension-filled but ethereal Champagne with high acidity, sign of a cool-weather vintage. Although already thoroughly enjoyable, it should age well over the next 10 years. This is a blend of 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay, disgorged with 4.25 grams per liter dosage. Drink 2023-2035.
    95 points
    Yohan Castaing - Wine Advocate (Nov 17, 2023)

    I tasted the 2014 Extra-Brut Clos des Goisses from a bottle disgorged a la volée, in other words with no dosage and no sulfur added. At this very early and unfinished stage, the 2014 appears to be a linear, focused Champagne built more on persistence and focus than body, which is to say very much in the style of the year. Of course, much can change with dosage. It will be interesting to see how things end up. The blend is 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay, done 64% in oak, 36% in steel, with no malolactic fermentation in any of the lots. Drink 2024-2044.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is showing elegant and complex aromas of pie crust, cinnamon rolls, spiced apples and hazelnuts. Hints of mocha and berry crumble. Very creamy bubbles on the palate, with caressing pastry elements married to bright acidity. There’s richness, but it’s sleek and fresh at the end. 71% pinot noir and 29% chardonnay. Disgorged March 2023. 4.5g/L dosage. Drink or hold.
    95 points
    James Suckling

    Made from 71% Pinot Noir and the rest Chardonnay, the 2014 Champagne Clos des Goisses Extra Brut takes on a very pretty and floral profile. Pouring a bright straw hue, it’s lifted with the perfume of cherry blossoms, wet stone, fresh berries, and sweet brioche. Full-bodied, though more linear compared to the 2013 vintage, it’s highlighted by a refined, chalky texture with a pillowy mousse, building to a ripe and rounded mid-palate and a long, elegant finish with a flourish of white pepper spice. Though it’s certainly not the most powerful vintage for the vineyard, it’s very attractive. It will benefit from another couple of years and continue to improve over the next two decades. Disgorged in March of 2023, with 4.5 grams per liter dosage. Drink 2025 - 2045.
    96 points
    Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com

    From the 5.83-hectare walled vineyard in a cooler, 'classic' vintage for Champagne, giving this a finessed and charming expression. Baked pastry and soft lemon curd notes on the nose, smells inviting and softly floral - honeysuckle, jasmine, lemon and lime rind with some peach. Juicy and so zesty straight away, bright, mouthwateing, scintillatingly fresh and lively, thrilling even, with tiny persistent bubbles that instantly froth and fill the mouth. Alive and energetic with lemon rind and juice, succulent green apples and strawberries, grapefruit and ginger bitterness with touches of salinity and graphite dotting the finish. This makes you instantly want another glass, but this has structure too and such a long finish. No malolactic fermentation. Dosage 4.5g/l. Made by Charles Philipponnat and Thierry Garnier. Drink 2023 - 2042.
    97 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    • 97
    • 94
    • 95
    • 96
    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    2014 Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Extra Brut Champagne Magnum (1500ml)
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $1099. 00
    Bottle
    $13188.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Philipponnat's Clos des Goisses vineyard is one of the most famous in all of Champagne, and having been purchased by the Philipponnat family in 1935 it immediately became its crown jewel. The name is taken from the local dialect “Gois” meaning very steep, and the vineyard is the steepest, directly south-facing site in the whole of Champagne with a gradient between 30-45%. Pinot Noir dominates the cuvee with the typical blend two-thirds Pinot and one-third Chardonnay, granting Clos des Goisses with power, structure, and exceptional longevity. Work is done almost entirely by hand, and no insecticides or synthetic herbicides are used in the vineyard. The 2014 release is a blend of 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay, aged on lees for 8 years.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2014 Extra-Brut Clos des Goisses, the latest rendition from this walled vineyard, reveals a fresh, energetic character with aromas of pear, peach, licorice, spices, white fruits, spring flowers and menthol. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and chiseled, this is a structured, tension-filled but ethereal Champagne with high acidity, sign of a cool-weather vintage. Although already thoroughly enjoyable, it should age well over the next 10 years. This is a blend of 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay, disgorged with 4.25 grams per liter dosage. Drink 2023-2035.
    95 points
    Yohan Castaing - Wine Advocate (Nov 17, 2023)

    I tasted the 2014 Extra-Brut Clos des Goisses from a bottle disgorged a la volée, in other words with no dosage and no sulfur added. At this very early and unfinished stage, the 2014 appears to be a linear, focused Champagne built more on persistence and focus than body, which is to say very much in the style of the year. Of course, much can change with dosage. It will be interesting to see how things end up. The blend is 71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay, done 64% in oak, 36% in steel, with no malolactic fermentation in any of the lots. Drink 2024-2044.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is showing elegant and complex aromas of pie crust, cinnamon rolls, spiced apples and hazelnuts. Hints of mocha and berry crumble. Very creamy bubbles on the palate, with caressing pastry elements married to bright acidity. There’s richness, but it’s sleek and fresh at the end. 71% pinot noir and 29% chardonnay. Disgorged March 2023. 4.5g/L dosage. Drink or hold.
    95 points
    James Suckling

    Made from 71% Pinot Noir and the rest Chardonnay, the 2014 Champagne Clos des Goisses Extra Brut takes on a very pretty and floral profile. Pouring a bright straw hue, it’s lifted with the perfume of cherry blossoms, wet stone, fresh berries, and sweet brioche. Full-bodied, though more linear compared to the 2013 vintage, it’s highlighted by a refined, chalky texture with a pillowy mousse, building to a ripe and rounded mid-palate and a long, elegant finish with a flourish of white pepper spice. Though it’s certainly not the most powerful vintage for the vineyard, it’s very attractive. It will benefit from another couple of years and continue to improve over the next two decades. Disgorged in March of 2023, with 4.5 grams per liter dosage. Drink 2025 - 2045.
    96 points
    Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com

    From the 5.83-hectare walled vineyard in a cooler, 'classic' vintage for Champagne, giving this a finessed and charming expression. Baked pastry and soft lemon curd notes on the nose, smells inviting and softly floral - honeysuckle, jasmine, lemon and lime rind with some peach. Juicy and so zesty straight away, bright, mouthwateing, scintillatingly fresh and lively, thrilling even, with tiny persistent bubbles that instantly froth and fill the mouth. Alive and energetic with lemon rind and juice, succulent green apples and strawberries, grapefruit and ginger bitterness with touches of salinity and graphite dotting the finish. This makes you instantly want another glass, but this has structure too and such a long finish. No malolactic fermentation. Dosage 4.5g/l. Made by Charles Philipponnat and Thierry Garnier. Drink 2023 - 2042.
    97 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    • 96
    • 97
    • 95
    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    1998 Philipponnat Clos des Goisses L.V. Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $1199. 00
    Bottle
    $14388.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Philipponnat's Clos des Goisses vineyard is one of the most famous in all of Champagne, and having been purchased by the Philipponnat family in 1935 it immediately became its crown jewel. The name is taken from the local dialect “Gois” meaning very steep, and the vineyard is the steepest, directly south-facing site in the whole of Champagne with a gradient between 30-45%. Pinot Noir dominates the cuvee with the typical blend two-thirds Pinot and one-third Chardonnay, granting Clos des Goisses with power, structure, and exceptional longevity. Work is done almost entirely by hand, and no insecticides or synthetic herbicides are used in the vineyard.

    The L.V. (Long Vieillissement / long ageing) release of Clos des Goisses is the rarest bottling to come from the vineyard in which only a few hundred bottles are ever released. Philipponnat's most recent L.V. comes from the 1998 vintage, and was disgorged 25 years after harvest in 2023 bottled with a very low 4.25 g/L dosage.

    Other Reviews....
    Disgorged in March 2023, the 1998 Extra Brut Clos des Goisses L.V. matured for 25 months in bottle and on lees. It reveals a brilliant, complex and intense bouquet with aromas of white pepper, smoke, orange peel, pastry, ripe fruits and flowers intertwined with a refreshing, delicate note of menthol. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and chiseled, it’s concentrated and racy with bright acids and an endless finish. Fully mature, it should age well over the next two to three years. This is a blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. Drink 2023-2035.
    95 points
    Yohan Castaing - Wine Advocate (Nov 17, 2023)

    Pale golden color with notes of honey, dried pear, chopped nuts, white chocolate and truffles. Creamy and rich, with a delicious sweet and salty character alongside earthy and honey undertones. Soft bubbles. Complex and drinking beautifully after 25 years in the cellar. Disgorged in March 2023. 4.5 g/L dosage. Drink now.
    97 points
    James Suckling

    The bright golden yellow 1998 Champagne Clos des Goisses Extra Brut is expressive and noble on opening, with notes of butterscotch, praline, white chocolate, cherry liqueur, and preserved apricot. Pure and ripe on the palate, it has an umami-like richness and is juicy with savory orange oil and grapefruit pith. It has a silky, supple mouthfeel with a refined mousse and a long finish, and it’s maturing wonderfully. Full-bodied, it’s an elegant wine but retains the characteristic power and length of this cuvée a fantastic finish. Saline and earthy, I might prefer to enjoy this over the next few years, but it will have a lot of life. Drink 2023-2033. Raised with cork not crown, it was disgorged in March 2023, with 4.5 grams per liter dosage. Approximately 100 bottles will be released. Drink 2023 - 2033.
    95 points
    Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com

    A library release of around 600 bottles from Philipponnat's oenotheque range. Salty aromas on the nose with fresh almonds - you can smell age and richness but the colour is remarkable, not at all deep gold or brown more bright gold, this smells older than it looks. Lots of pear, ripe and fresh with vanilla, sandalwood, floral scents and softly spiced accents on the nose alongside a faint truffle aroma. The palate is focussed and straight with an iodine, lemon and lime tang in the middle while the edges carry the maturity with smoked meat, cepe, buttery toast, vanilla cream pastry, salt and a touch of exotic fruit. Persistent, intense, complex, rich and so intriguing - a real ride of flavour and texture. A wonderful treat to taste a historic vintage direct from the estate and to be able to compare it to the initial release if you have any. Dosage 4.25g/l. Drink 2023 - 2032.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    • 96
    • 98
    • 97
    • 97
    • 98
    • Nick's Import
    2013 Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $499. 00
    Bottle
    $5988.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Philipponnat's Clos des Goisses vineyard is one of the most famous in all of Champagne, and having been purchased by the Philipponnat family in 1935 it immediately became its crown jewel. The name is taken from the local dialect “Gois” meaning very steep, and the vineyard is the steepest, directly south-facing site in the whole of Champagne with a gradient between 30-45%. Pinot Noir dominates the cuvee with the typical blend two-thirds Pinot and one-third Chardonnay, granting Clos des Goisses with power, structure, and exceptional longevity. Work is done almost entirely by hand, and no insecticides or synthetic herbicides are used in the vineyard. The 2013 release is a blend of 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Chardonnay, aged on lees for 8 years.

    Note: Product comes without gift box.

    Other Reviews....
    Surpassing even the 2012 and 2008, Philipponnat's 2013 Extra-Brut Clos des Goisses looks to be the finest vintage of this cuvée in several decades, at least on first acquaintance. Deriving from only the six core parcels out of the 13 that make up the Clos des Goisses, it's a striking wine, evoking aromas of crisp yellow orchard fruit, Anjou pear, clear honey, bee pollen, stone fruit and iodine. Full-bodied, layered and vinous, its textural attack segues into a deep, concentrated and tightly wound mid-palate that's girdled by racy acids and chalky structure, before concluding with a long, saline finish. Why is it quite so good? It would appear that 2013 was the perfect storm: an early-ripening terroir in a cool, late vintage; moderately yielding Burgundian selections of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that attained full maturity; and a willingness to make a strict selection have all come together to deliver a profound Clos des Goisses. Drink: 2025 - 2055.
    98 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate

    The 2013 Extra-Brut Clos des Goisses is fabulous. Readers will have to be patient, as the 2013 is in no mood to show all its cards. The late harvest produced a bristling, intensely saline Clos des Goisses that will require years to be at its best. Even so, its depth, textural resonance and finish are so evocative as to what the future holds. The 2013 is a positively stunning Champagne and one of the best Goisses in recent memory. I can't wait to see how it develops. Dosage is 4.5 grams per liter. Drink: 2031-2053.
    98 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is elegant and sophisticated with aromas of red apples, honey, pears, hazelnuts, praline, croissants and hints of white chocolate. Very fine, tight bubbles. Framed and structured. Focused from start to finish, with so much life ahead. 85% pinot noir and 15% chardonnay. Disgorged March 2022. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    Claire Nesbitt - JamesSuckling.com

    Gently aromatic nose, floral and fresh. Round, generous and so delicate. Tiny bubbles are so lovely, coating the mouth in a fresh lemon, green apple, peach and nectarine quality. Sensual almost, so charming, so welcoming. Round, not massively full, but driving and persistent. You can definitely have this without food and just enjoy the balance, the detail and the nuance. Excellent winemaking here. Beautifully controlled and such a joy to drink. Dosage 4.5g/L. Drink: 2024-2040.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Tasting this a year later alongside the new release of 2014, the 2013 Champagne Clos des Goisses Extra Brut seems to be coming into its own. Composed of 85% Pinot Noir and the rest Chardonnay, and pouring a rich straw/copper hue, it’s starting to show lovely, layered aromatics as it unfolds with scents of red berries, currant, toasted croissant, frangipane, and orgeat. Full-bodied, assertive, and long on the palate, it has driving, assertive energy with fantastic concentration and acidity. Though it has broad shoulders, it remains in check with itself and offers a long, fantastic finish. It has great structure and an angular feel, with notes of Meyer lemon preserves and orange rind, and delivers wonderful energy throughout. This can hold up through a meal of sweetbreads or other rich fare. 10,723 bottles were produced. Drink 2024-2055. Disgorged in March 2022, with 4.5 grams per liter dosage.
    97 points
    Audrey Frick - jebdunnuck.com

    • 98
    • 96
    • Nick's Import
    1997 Philipponnat Clos des Goisses L.V. Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $1150. 00
    Bottle
    $13800.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Philipponnat's Clos des Goisses vineyard is one of the most famous in all of Champagne, and having been purchased by the Philipponnat family in 1935 it immediately became its crown jewel. The name is taken from the local dialect “Gois” meaning very steep, and the vineyard is the steepest, directly south-facing site in the whole of Champagne with a gradient between 30-45%. Pinot Noir dominates the cuvee with the typical blend two-thirds Pinot and one-third Chardonnay, granting Clos des Goisses with power, structure, and exceptional longevity. Work is done almost entirely by hand, and no insecticides or synthetic herbicides are used in the vineyard.

    The L.V. (Long Vieillissement / long ageing) release of Clos des Goisses is the rarest bottling to come from the vineyard in which only a few hundred bottles are ever released. Philipponnat's most recent L.V. comes from the stunning 1997 vintage, it's a blend of 66% Pinot Noir and 34% Chardonnay and was disgorged 25 years after harvest in 2022 bottled with a very low 4.5 g/L dosage.

    Other Reviews....
    The 1997 Extra Brut Clos des Goisses L.V. is a stunning Champagne, with aromas of coffee beans, vanilla, honeycomb, pastry, ripe orchard fruits and a touch of menthol. Full-bodied, layered and textural, it’s perfectly balanced with an enveloping core of fruit and a delicate mousse. It concludes with an elegantly vinous profile and a long, sapid finish. Although already thoroughly enjoyable, it should age well over the next five to 10 years. Drink 2023 - 2035.
    96 points
    Yohan Castaing - Wine Advocate (Nov 17, 2023)

    This has an enticing nose of pastries, apricots, raspberries, rhubarb, baklava and manuka honey. Lemon curd, mushrooms and marmalade, too. Opens up beautifully, rich yet fresh and vibrant, with tight and energetic bubbles. Late release. Drink or hold.
    98 points
    Claire Nesbitt - JamesSuckling.com

    25 years after vintage, disgorged at the same time as the (not dissimilar in spirit) 2013, and at this point you can expect a slight softening in the pressure of the mousse, and a whole heap of extra truffle, creme patisserie, brioche and wax flavours. After so long on the lees, you might also get a touch of marmite reduction at first, so I would give it a short carafe before drinking - basically just decant for 5 minutes and then straight out into your glass. As it opens, you get waves of aromatic herbs, angelica-liqourice, touch of honeysuckle, frangipane, soot, cold ash, grilled almond, even rancio oxidative notes on the finish. An October harvest which is extremely late for Champagne, this has decades ahead of it. Today's winemaker Thierry Garnier was already there, but chef de cave was Norbert Thiebert.
    97 points
    Jane Anson

    • 99
    • 96
    • 98
    • Nick's Import
    1996 Philipponnat Clos des Goisses L.V. Extra Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $1299. 00
    Bottle
    $15588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Cork

    Philipponnat's Clos des Goisses vineyard is one of the most famous in all of Champagne, and having been purchased by the Philipponnat family in 1935 it immediately became its crown jewel. The name is taken from the local dialect “Gois” meaning very steep, and the vineyard is the steepest, directly south-facing site in the whole of Champagne with a gradient between 30-45%. Pinot Noir dominates the cuvee with the typical blend two-thirds Pinot and one-third Chardonnay, granting Clos des Goisses with power, structure, and exceptional longevity. Work is done almost entirely by hand, and no insecticides or synthetic herbicides are used in the vineyard.

    The L.V. (Long Vieillissement / long ageing) release of Clos des Goisses is the rarest bottling to come from the vineyard in which only a few hundred bottles are ever released. Philipponnat's most recent L.V. comes from the stunning 1996 vintage, and was disgorged 25 years after harvest in 2021 bottled with a very low 4.5 g/L dosage.

    Other Reviews....
    Only small amounts of this vintage has been made available before now, so this is really an extremely special release from one of the last Champagne houses to be run by a member of its founding family. Now 25 years post harvest, this was a high acidity vintage, meaning it was always clear that it would age well, but also clear that Clos des Goisses benefitted more than ever from its south-facing slopes that allowed the Pinot to get beautifully structured and ripe to balance the acidity. Rich and nuanced in colour, golden amber, with evident body and powerful flavours of quince, tobacco, campfire smoke. A brilliant interplay between tertiary truffle and patisserie notes with elderflower, white peaches and lemongrass coming in halfway through to add lift. Precise and delicate bubbles, clear persistency, with a bitter almond finish. The house vintages are all aged in the traditional 18C cellars, riddled by hand. Very low dosage at 4.5 g/l - making it an Extra Brut (as are all the Philipponnat Champagnes). Bottled 1997, disgorged March 2021 (and just 600 bottles, going up to perhaps 900 maximum, for worldwide distribution). Would benefit from a short carafe before drinking, but the main priority here is to clear your schedule and enjoy.
    100 points
    Jane Anson

    A special back-vintage release of the Clos des Goisses 1996 which has seen no other official commercial sales since its initial disgorgement. The bottles being offered via the Place de Bordeaux, which amount to less than 1,000, were disgorged in March 2021 having spent 24 years on their lees. A beautiful light caramel gold colour in the glass, this has aromatic intensity with a poised and delicate palate. So juicy and fresh, the high acidity of the 1996 vintage still evident with bright white fruits at the fore backed by buttery patisseries elements and some tertiary nuttiness around the sides of the mouth that give shape to the overall mouthfeel. An invigorating glass and one to savour the nuanced complexity. A dosage of 4.5g/l. Drinking Window 2021 - 2031.
    99 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Lots of bread dough and rancio with dried-apple and white-pepper aromas that follow through to a full body with a tight and beautiful palate of intense yeast and fresh pie. Raw pie crust at the end, as well as almond cream and some cheese. Steely. Unique late release. Drink now.
    98 points
    James Suckling

    The 1996 Extra-Brut Clos des Goisses L.V. has reached a glorious peak of expression. Apricot, burnt sugar, spice, pastry, hazelnut and a whole range of reductive notes that have developed in bottle fill out the layers. In 1996, Clos des Goisses was still aged on cork (for both the original and L.V. releases. Over time, cork seems to given the 1996 an especially relaxed, resonant feel. Dosage is 4.5 grams per liter. Disgorged: March, 2021. Drink 2021 - 2036.
    96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 95
    • 93
    Pierre Gimonnet & Fils Cuvee Cuis 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Since 1750 the Gimonnet family have been vine growers in the village of Cuis, supplying some of the great Champagne houses with fruit. It wasn’t until the 1930's recession when sales of grapes fell that Monsieur Pierre Gimonnet finally decided to take up the challenge of producing Champagne under his own label. It was a great struggle at first, establishing a clientele who were not, at that time, accustomed to "blanc de blancs" Champagnes, not least from a new small independent producer. The effort finally paid off and today the name Pierre Gimonnet et Fils is a highly respected name in Champagne. The estate is now run by Pierre's sons, Michel and Didier, who share the fanaticism of their father for the Gimonnet Champagnes.

    A very flavoursome Blanc de Blancs Champagne.

    Pours with an exuberant mousse that holds well over a pale straw gold tinged core. Fine and persistent bead. Gorgeous aromatics of baked bread, yeast lees and cashew fill the nostrils complimented by some brioche, citrus and subtle ginger notes. Racy and chalky in in its feel the mouth watering palate is layered with baked bread, citrus and yeast lees flavours which meld into a cream tinged back drop of cashew and delicate ginger. Sculptured acidity with a long, dry and crisp finish that has a slightly chalky feel to it.
    Alc. 12.5%

    Previously tasted May 2016. Pours with a frothy white mousse that shows very good hold. Pale straw base wine colour with a very fine bead that shows excellent persistence. Rich, powerful nose with aromas of baked bread, yeast lees and some toastiness to the fore. Subtle roasted almond and citrusy dried honey notes follow on. Quite full and rich the palate possesses mouthfilling flavours of baked bread, oily toast like characters and yeast lees with infusions of roasted nuts and traces of citrus fruits freshening things up. Creamy textural feel with a dry oily finish. Superb richness and length with a long toasty aftertaste of bready yeast lees characters and roasted nuts.
    Alc 12.5%
    96 points

    Other Reviews....
    There's a subtle succulence to this graceful Champagne, framing flavors of peach skin, ripe pear, Marcona almond and orchard blossoms. The fine, detailed mousse is raw silk–like in texture. Finishes with minerally fleur de sel and oyster shell notes. Disgorged December 2023. Drink now through 2029.
    93 points
    Wine Spectator

    • 91
    • 93
    • 92
    • Reduced
    Pierre Peters Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $170.00
    $145. 00
    Bottle
    $1740.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The NV Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Extra Brut is entirely from the 2014 vintage and was sourced in four parcels of the Côte des Blancs. Opening with potted ginger and white flowers on the clear, fresh, precise and chalky nose, this is a pure, fresh, elegant, beautifully dry and chalky grand cru with an expressive, stimulating iodine-inflected finish that reveals a persistent structure and freshness. This is a damned serious and chalky Blanc de Blancs that was disgorged in January 2018 with just two grams of dosage. Tasted at the domaine in April 2018.
    92 Points
    Stephan Reinhardt - Robert Parkers Wine Advocate (September 2018)

    Light, transparent nose. Very readable and transparent wine. Lifted with an impact that builds on the finish but is almost unnoticeable on the nose initially. So, so different from the Moëts just tasted! This is a sort of Chablis of Champagne … but is not uncomfortably dry and tart with a light yeastiness on the finish. There's something distinctly floral about it. Even pretty. Though it's not cheap.
    16.5 Points/20 Points
    Jancis Robinson MW (March 2021)

    The 2014 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs is another fine example of the vintage. Creamy and open-knit, with soft contours, the 2014 offers plenty of near to medium-term appeal. The lemon confit, almond and dried flower notes are finely knit. The Blanc de Blancs is the first release of the same wine that will be sold as L’Esprit with higher dosage next year for the US and other countries. The Blanc de Blancs is mostly destined to Scandinavian markets and is the only wine in the Péters range that is sold as an Extra-Brut. Disgorged December 2017. Dosage is 2 grams per liter.
    91 Points
    Antonio Galloni's Vinous (March 2018)

    Actually a (non-disclosed) vintage Champagne released earlier than is conventional, it is a blend of four parcels in the four Grand Cru villages of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Avize and Cramant. This has exotic, ripe and expressive peach, mango and melon fruits, leading to a palate bursting with fleshy, flavorsome stone fruits and ripe mango. Exuberant style. Drink now.
    93 Points
    JamesSuckling.com (October 2017)

    • 95
    • 93
    • 92
    • 92
    • 92
    • 93
    • Reduced
    Pierre Peters Cuvee de Reserve Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $145.00
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2020-2025)
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Once the lacy white mousse dissipates it reveals a pale straw coloured base that has shades of gold to the edges. The bead is fine and profuse. Refined yeast lees, citrus and baked bread aromas are followed by light notions of oyster shell and cashew. Possessing good richness and fine airy feel, there’s a faint creaminess to the oily bread, yeast lees and citrus flavours which are backed by a subtle toastiness and some brioche. Finishes dry and finely textured with stimulating acidity and a long savoury aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews....
    Based on the 2019 vintage (which Péters declares "the best of the decade") and disgorged this year, the NV Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Cuvée de Réserve bursts with aromas of crisp stone fruit, orange zest, freshly baked bread and beeswax. Medium-bodied, ample and pillowy, with a fleshy core of fruit, racy acids and a saline finish, it's animated by an attractive pinpoint mousse. Drink 2022 - 2032.
    92 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Sep 2022)

    The NV Brut Cuvée de Réserve Grand Cru is fabulous. A Champagne of tension and energy, the Cuvée de Réserve has real presence, not to mention tons of class. Citrus, jasmine, mint and crushed rocks are some of the many nuances that race out of the glass. In this release, the Cuvée de Réserve has a light tropical quality that is both exotic and hugely appealing. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: March, 2021. Drink 2021-2028.
    92 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Very fine bready lemon citrus aromas here; a restrained, fresh and attractively raw expression of chardonnay aromas. The palate unleashes more flamboyant fruit flavors, heading through citrus to nectarine and peach. The focus never wavers. Long, fine and pure.
    92 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    Made up, half and half, of base wine from the sunny 2018 harvest, and reserve wine from Rodolphe’s Perpetual Reserve which goes back to 1988, this is one of the most consistently excellent NV wines on the market. Its current iteration is especially impressive, floral, chalky, upstanding, and very complex; the palate sharing notes of dried apricot, plum and lemon pith with more developed intimations of sour honey and patisserie. An exemplary wine with real purity and precision on the finish. Drink 2021 - 2024.
    93 points
    Simon Field MW - Decanter

    This elegant Champagne is powered by intense acidity, wrapping its racy frame in a cloak fashioned from the plush and creamy mousse as it carries flavors of ripe mirabelle plum and fig fruit, chopped hazelnut and preserved lemon, with an underlying tang of salinity. The lingering finish echoes the ripe fruit and mineral character. Disgorged October 2020. Drink now through 2026.
    93 points
    Alison Napjus - Wine Spectator

    • 93
    • 93
    • Reduced
    2014 Piper-Heidsieck Vintage Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $130.00
    $110. 00
    Bottle
    $1320.00 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Cork

    Founded in 1785, Piper-Heidsieck has a long history of excellence and innovation in blending exceptional wines. Chef de Cave Emilien Boutillat reflects this in the entire range of champagnes. The 2014 vintage benefited from an early spring and a warm Indian summer, resulting in crisp Chardonnays and sophisticated Pinots Noirs. Sourced from 19 crus, including 87% Grands and Premiers Crus, this blend was aged on lees for over 5 years. Expect elegant aromas of orange blossom, apricot, brioche, and toasted almond, with flavors of tangerine, lime zest, and licorice on the palate.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews....
    Showing nicely complex notes of figs, red apples, golden pears, walnuts and lemon conserve on toast, with a touch of beeswax. It’s medium-bodied, with bright acidity and a textured, phenolic palate. Tight bubbles. Dry feel. 55% pinot and 45% chardonnay. 7g/L dosage. Delicious now.
    93 Points
    JamesSuckling.com

    A seamless Champagne, finely textured and showing a creamy viscosity on the palate. This vibrant version winds a subtle, toasty thread of brioche and roasted almond through flavors of black currant, dried apricot and candied lemon peel. Mouthwatering and lightly chalky on the finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Drink now through 2029.
    93 Points
    Alison Napjus - Wine Spectator

    • 93
    • 93
    • 92
    • Reduced
    Piper-Heidsieck Cuvee Brut Champagne
    Champagne, FRANCE
    Reduced from $69.99
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 12%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    A buoyant mousse slowly dissipates to reveal a pale straw coloured base that has pale gold edges. The fine bead showing excellent persistence. Citrusy chalk tinged aromas are complemented by yeast lees, subtle red apple and baked bread. Nicely meshed flavours of pear, citrus and baked bread mix with yeast lees and delicate quince characters. Vivid acidity lends a refreshing feel to the mouth watering conclusion.
    Alc. 12%

    Other Reviews….
    Finely balanced and fresh, with the delicate bead carrying appealing ripe black cherry and green apple fruit, plus a fragrant mix of lime blossom, saffron, toasted almond and ground coffee details. Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Drink now.
    92 points
    Wine Spectator

    Regularly self-selects itself for its quality/price ratio. A 50/30/20% blend of pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay, 30% reserve (a collection of more than 150 wines), on yeast lees for a minimum of 24 months; dosage 8g/l. The bouquet has a spicy edge, the palate long and juicy with citrus and bosc pear.
    93 points
    James Halliday's Top 100 2023

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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.