Vinous (93)

Jancis Robinson (16)

Etienne Calsac Les Rocheforts Blanc de Blancs NV is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Etienne Calsac estate, nestled in the heart of Burgundy's prestigious vineyards. Crafted exclusively from 100% Chardonnay grapes, this NV epitomises the finesse and elegance characteristic of the Les Rocheforts appellation. Hand-harvested with meticulous care, the grapes undergo gentle pressing to preserve their purity and vibrant acidity. The wine is then matured in a combination of stainless steel and selected French oak barrels, allowing for a harmonious balance between fruit-driven freshness and subtle oak nuances. The result is a luminous pale gold wine with aromas of citrus blossom, white peach, and a hint of minerality on the palate, culminating in a long, refined finish. Etienne Calsac's dedication to traditional winemaking techniques ensures that Les Rocheforts Blanc de Blancs NV offers a sublime experience for the discerning connoisseur.

The Francis Boulard Rachais Brut Nature 2012 is a venerable display of an excellent, biodynamically produced Champagne. Crafted meticulously by Francis Boulard, a renowned winemaker whose family has been dedicated to viticulture for over two centuries, this offering encapsulates the essence of Champagne's Massif de Saint-Thierry terroir. This Extra Brut is primarily composed of Pinot Meunier, possessing a remarkably low dosage making it exceptionally crisp and unfiltered.

Certain vintage years, including 2012, are known for their exceptional quality, and Francis Boulard utilises traditional methods to exquisitely express this bounty. The Champagne is fermented in oak barrels and the bottles are manually disgorged. The result is a wine possessing complex aromatic character redolent with green apple, nougat and yuzu notes supported by a vibrant acidity that promises enduring cellaring potential.

A bottle of Francis Boulard Rachais Brut Nature 2012 is a testament to unwavering commitment to organic and biodynamic practices, radiating the brilliance of its maker and the vineyard's exceptional terrain.

Proudly presenting the formidable Franck Pascal Harmonie Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut 2011, a pinnacle of elegance and technique from the renowned Champagne region of France. This sophisticated vintage was expertly crafted by vintner Franck Pascal himself, a fervent bio-dynamic practitioner. Being an extra brut, it's intensely dry, yet maintains a compelling energy and vibrancy.

Originating from a blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, the low-yielding vines on chalky soils impart intense fruit and mineral complexity. The careful handling of the grapes lends a purity and transparency to this wine. Pascal's exceptional skills, combined with meticulous attention to detail, result in richly nuanced flavours with a delicate, silky mousse.

With the Franck Pascal Harmonie Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut 2011, savour the perfect balance of depth and lightness, assured to captivate even the most discerning of palates. Truly a sip reflective of Franck Pascal's unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional biodynamic wines.

An exceptional vintage, Franck Pascal Liberance Brut Nature 2015 hails from the Champagne region of France, meticulously crafted by renown wine artisan, Franck Pascal himself. Embracing organic farming years before many others, he created an unforgettable blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. This sparkling wine, vinified in oak casks, offers tantalising bites of biscuit, pear, and fresh creaminess on the palate.

Meticulous attention to detail characterises Franck Pascal's winemaking approach. Grown on small parcels under biodynamic management, this bubbly was made in minuscule quantities, from grapes scrupulously hand-picked at optimum maturity. Following fermentation, the wine matured 'sur lattes' for an exceptional period, adding depth and complexity to the taste.

As a Brut Nature, the Franck Pascal Liberance Brut Nature 2015 represents the purest expression of its terroir, with no dosage added. This fully expresses the character of its vintage, a natural, striking authenticity that conveys the wine's individuality and the winemaking mastery of Franck Pascal.

Experience the sublime artistry of Franck Pascal Pacifiance Brut Nature NV. This exceptional Champagne, crafted by one of the finest biodynamic producers in the region, embodies an unwavering dedication to quality. Each bottle captures Franck Pascal's meticulous approach to winemaking, with grapes hand-picked from vines meticulously cared for in small vineyards throughout the Vallée de la Marne.

Only the purest wine from the first pressing makes it into the Pacifiance Brut Nature NV, encapsulating the natural beauty, vitality and opulent flavours of the land. This non-vintage blend is expertly balanced with minimal intervention, allowing the character of the Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varietals to truly shine. The resultant tipple is rich, complex and full-bodied, underpinned by a lively acidity and creamy, long-lasting finish.

Franck Pascal Pacifiance Brut Nature NV is a work of art, presenting the quintessential champagne experience like no other.

Imbued with the riveting sophistication expected of the terroir, the Franck Pascal Quinte Essence Extra Brut 2009 is a unique masterpiece from the house of Franck Pascal. This exceptional biodynamic champagne, hailing from the fabled vineyards of Champagne, France, is crafted with meticulous precision. Franck Pascal, a virtuoso amongst winemakers, painstakingly nurtures each batch with the ethos of respecting nature and biodiversity. Largely Pinot Meunier with judicious blends of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it emanates a rich, complex aroma revealing nuances of ripe apples, almonds and buttery brioche.

The Franck Pascal Quinte Essence Extra Brut 2009 is aged for a generous nine years, lending it an undeniably mature cross-complex tang. Its inherently low dosage ensures it retains an extra brut distinctiveness. On the palate, it is vivacious and ebullient yet strikes a fine balance of acidity and creaminess, leading to a long, satisfying finish. A true labour of love, it embodies the spirit of its creator with deft aplomb.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)

Discover the sophistication of Gallois Millesime Brut Premier Cru Champagne 2014, a delightful fusion of traditional techniques and modern ingenuity. Hailing from the distinguished region of Montagne de Reims, France, this Premier Cru Champagne exudes elegance and complexity.

Expertly produced by Maison Gallois — a beacon of respect and craftsmanship since 1921 — this Brut Millesime offers a harmonious blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir. The grapes are hand-picked and undergo first-press only, ensuring exceptionally pure juice. Ageing for six years exceeds the minimal requirement for a vintage Champagne, lending depth to its flavour profile.

The Gallois Millesime Brut Premier Cru Champagne 2014 distinguishes itself with rich notes of apple and citrus, interlaced with hints of toasty brioche. Its refined finish and balanced acidity confirm its noble lineage, offering wine aficionados a truly exquisite drinking experience.