December 30, 2023 - Glad I got a good stash of the 2008 based release (old label) as this just keeps giving a wonderful drinking experience. Almost 2 years since the last bottle and this was round creamy and balanced. Still fresh and not showing any signs of oxidation. Even better after 20 -30 minutes.
December 15, 2023 - Dinner w/ Jim & Michelene at our place. I feel goofy saying this but tonight this was more impressive than the 2013 Dom Perignon that followed. I opened one of these for the pre-dinner "kitchen staff"; Craig, Nita & Joe and couldn't stop benchmarking it in my head with the 2013 Dom we served later. Side by side and blind I might have guess this to be the Dom. Always one of our favorite house champagnes, year in and year out. Let's see, one 2013 DP or six of these for the same cost. Something to ponder :). Normally DP easily walks away with the prize. I hope the 2013 impresses more down the line.
December 3, 2023 - Bought these in 375 and they are missing the "Grand Cru" designation under the word "Brut." Hard to believe that would be an oversight or accidental, so we suspect this is not the wine we are used to and it showed in the battle.
This is missing some of the acid and chalkiness we've come to expect. Maybe it's a base vintage thing, rather than not being grand cru? Not sure, but we're a little disappointed.
November 13, 2023 - Tasted blind. very typical blanc the blanc. Well balanced and complex for a NV. Lemon, nutty and pastery on the nose. Very flowery on the palate. Nice Champagne that i like to drink more from.
September 27, 2023 - Pale gold color. Drank 2 glasses to kick off our North Shore excursion. These are so damn good, I hate to even add, at the price point. The nose is precocious, with its fresh pear notes wrapped up in pie crust and creamy patisserie, green apple, biscuit and light toast. The palate echos the purity of pear fruit, pastry cream, stony spice notes and a definitive toasty note on an elegant finish. Just delightful. 92+ to 93pts.
July 24, 2023 - Wines That Don't Suck at Ciao Bella: Fairly toasty, assertive and yeasty for a BdB, although it has ample acidity and freshness that is more reminiscent of chardonnay. 90-91.
July 23, 2023 - Craig Tasting - WTDS (Ciao Bella - Bloomington): Nice starter sparkler! Straw, brioche and some saline....what more could you ask for in a starter Champagne? Paired nicely with fried calamari! 90+ for me! Thanks Brian for bringing this!
July 23, 2023 - PNP. Straw color. Honey, brioche, and subtle minerality. Dry palate, with a good volume of medium fine bubbles. Nice acidity, with a good linger.
Excellent QPR. Good structure and a very easy drinker.
July 12, 2023 - A bit simple but enjoyable for what it is
July 1, 2023 - Pale gold color. Drank a glass over an hour. Had these on Dad's birthday up at Wildview with family. These recent bottles have been excellent again. Always classy, light-medium bodied, very elegant, pear, green apple, yeast, pastry, fine dry stone minerals and fresh air. Lovely.