Champagne Dehours - Grande Réserve Brut NV

The "Grande Réserve" is rich and fruity, with a silky mouthfeel.

The Domaine predominantly produces Pinot Meunier in addition to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Pinot Meunier varietal is best suited to this cooler area of Champagne and is a favourite of the Marne Valley. Dehours Champagnes are eagerly sought by champagne enthusiasts for their renowned “Meunier style;” bold, flavourful and showing a clear terroir-orientated approach. This cuvée is extra aged on lees and reveals the character of Pinot Meunier grapes wonderfully. A high proportion of reserve wine comes from a solera that was started in 1998. The final blend is aged in bottle for 15-27 months. The wines are fully aged on lees, clarified by natural decanting and without filtration or fining. 

Upon tasting, you’ll understand how the characteristics of the Pinot Meunier grape have become inextricably linked to the identity of this iconic vineyard. The colour is a luxurious soft gold in the glass with a vibrant bouquet of bright orange and lemon citrus, ripe apricot, pears, pine resin, wax and toasted brioche. The palate is vibrant and jolly, featuring apple pie, white and yellow stone fruit, cinnamon and vanilla spice. The dynamic mouthfeel and bubbles are silky smooth with delicious minerals lingering on the finish. I would pair this wine with aperitif-based foods like charcuterie and cheese, deep fried snacks, salmon and prawns. Brut – Dosage 4 g/l.

The NV Brut Grand Reserve is an attractive, Meunier-driven offering. Dried pear, crushed flowers, chamomile, mint and sage lend notable complexity to this mid-weight, vinous offering. There's lovely nuance and a good bit of character here as well. Impressive. 90 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous.