Noces de Craie' Extra Brut

Score

91

Score

93

Score

93

"Superb intensity and precision here, with blackberry, roasted stone fruit, gingerbread and touches of vanilla (despite the lack of oak). Persistent and energetic rather than powerful or heavy, with some of A 's rasping chalky freshness underneath; this is a complete and compelling blanc de noir. A wine that perfectly showcases the allure of south-facing, chalky A , the renowned grand cru village of the Grande Vallée."

Score

94

Score

94

Score

94

Score

92

Score

17

"At first it's just singing with fruit, nectarines and greengages, a splash of pineapple candy. But give it a moment or three, stay to the end, and you'll find the chestnut shadow deepening the finish. Maple-syrup smokiness, sweetness and intensity. A wine that builds its baritone with each mouthful. Earthy, autumnal. Persistent, insistent. Either I missed something last year or this wine really needed another year in bottle, but it tastes far more complex and interesting than it did last year. (TC)"

Score

94

"The 2018 Extra Brut Blanc de Noirs Noces de Craie is a powerful, vibrant Champagne that lives up to its name. Layers of deep, resonant Pinot fruit wrap around the palate, all framed by incisive veins of chalk that give the wine its shape and overall structure. There's tremendous weight and substance here, both commendable for a year in which so many Champagnes are on the lighter side. Dosage is 5 grams per liter. Disgorged October 10, 2022."