'Spécial Club Cuis 1er Cru' Brut

Score

94

Score

94

"A solid Blanc De Blancs from Gimonnet, the 2018 Champagne 1er Cru Cuis Special Club Extra Brut pours a silver straw hue and is aromatic of crushed stones, fresh flowers, green pear, tarragon, and lime. Medium-bodied, it's elegant and finessed, with a delicate mouthfeel and a refreshing feel on the palate, with clean lift. Attractive and fresh, it is zesty but approachable. Drink 2023-2030."

Score

90

"Heavily based on the lieu-dit La Croix Blanche, with the remainder coming from Les Roualles, the 2018 Special Club Cuis Grand Cru was disgorged in January 2024 with five grams per liter dosage. It was only logical for Gimonnet to dedicate a Special Club bottling to Cuis, given that this village accounts for half of their production. Opening from the glass with scents of peach, crème brûlée and red apple, it is muscular and enveloping, anchored by ripe acidity but finishes rather sweet. While it has a lovely perfume, the palate doesn't quite capture the same level of quality as the other Special Club bottlings. As is often the case in such vintages, it will refine with time."

Score

94

"Vivid acidity creates a mouthwatering frame for flavors of Honeycrisp apple and nectarine, with pickled ginger, chamomile and blanched almond accents. Lacy in texture, this shows focus and length in a finely balanced, bright and graceful package. Disgorged June 2023. Drink now through 2035. ‡A.N."