NV Paul Bara Brut Reserve Champagne, Bouzy
94 Points - Wine & Spirits: Pinot noir provides 80 percent of this blend, chardonnay the balance, both from the clay-limestone soils of Bouzy; this current release is from the 2011 vintage. The wine fermented in stainless steel and did not undergo malolactic conversion; then it aged for six years in bottle on the lees. It’s an ornate Champagne, lush and fully developed on one hand, brisk with chamomile and lotus-root scents on the other, and creamy with bright notes of yellow rose, white peach and corn silk. Full-on delicious.
Winemaker Notes: Light yellow-gold tinted colour. Fine and abundant bubbles forming an attractive mousse. Ripe aromas of fleshy fruits with overtones of Mirabelle plums. Opens up into spices and honey, underlined by candied fruit aromas, bergamot and orange peel. Fruity and fresh with body and intensity of flavour. Notes of yellow peaches with a slight peppery hint.