- Hazelnut, mandarin, nougat
- A full-bodied, powerful Pinot Noir from new oak
- Grand Cru Ambonnay from a top winemaker
This pure Pinot Noir champagne from the Grand Cru Ambonnay has plenty of power, a full, creamy palate and a crystal-clear, distinctly dry, mineral freshness. This freshness contrasts with the ripe, extravagant aromas of hazelnut, gianduja, cocoa, mandarin and red apples. The oak ageing (70%) adds a smoky spiciness. It is now and will remain in a very good drinking window for the next 15 years.
Eric Rodez learned how to use new oak in Burgundy in the late 1970s and early 1980s. He then worked at Krug, where he mastered the art of assembling a cuvée from many individual parcels. Even though single-vineyard champagnes are currently in vogue, and Eric Rodez's Prestie cuvées also come from individual terroirs, his cuvées are just as impressive. We are thinking in particular of the Blanc de Noirs and the Grand Vintages, which are usually blended from around 30 of the house's parcels. The Blanc de Noirs in particular is outstanding and represents a clear leap in quality compared to entry-level champagnes. This house is one to remember if you like full-bodied, powerful, winey champagnes with wood influence.
