"Ambonnay Grand Cru" Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut

Score

96

"Coming from two plots that face north and northwest, with 55-year-old vines planted in the 1970s, the 2020 Champagne Grand Cru Verzenay Vieilles Vignes Pinot Noir Extra Brut is a bright straw color and offers lovely elegance, its mineral texture guiding the wine across the palate. Pretty and red-fruited, it has medium body, balanced ripeness, and a subtle chalky texture. I really enjoyed this, but it may need time to come out of its shell. Drink 2026-2045."

Score

94

"This has a light copper hue and aromas of cloves, sliced apples, peach pits and grilled brioche. It's silky and refined on the palate, with fine bubbles. Toasty, spicy nuances. Lots of flavor. Long, dry and beautiful. Disgorged December 2024. 3 g/L dosage. Drink now or hold."

Score

93

"The 2020 Extra Brut Ambonnay Grand Cru emerges from old vines in the Aigremonts, Guillotte and Village lieux-dits, all planted in the 1960s. Readers will find an aromatic, mid-weight Ambonnay endowed with tons of class and nuance. Crushed flowers, ginger, spice, mint, lemon oil and chamomile unfurl in the glass. The low-dosage style is a bit strict, but otherwise, this is nicely done. Aeration releases the wine's power. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: December 2024."