Baras Blanc de Noirs from very old Pinot Noir vines in Bouzy, named after the daughter of Eleanor of Aquitaine, is one of the highlights of Champagne. I had the opportunity to taste the 1982 3 years ago and I can't remember a better Blanc de Noirs. Right out of the gate, the 2008 is characterised by a firm mineral structure, intense acidity and aromas of ripe apple, with lemon and toasted hazelnut flavours coming in over time. The first half of the palate is mineral, fresh with lemon notes, then quickly transitions to a fuller palate with enticing toasted hazelnut and coffee notes.
