The villages of Bouzy and Ambonnay in Montagne de Reims claim some of the best Pinot Noir in the region as their own; although, small amounts of Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay are grown here as well. Both classified as Grand Cru villages, Bouzy and Ambonnay sit in a slight dip that protects the two choice villages from harsh winds and allows slightly warmer temperatures. The result is a full-bodied wine with richness, bold concentration of fruit and luscious viscosity. The village of Bouzy, where most of Clouet’s fruit is located, is best known for its tantalizing minerality derived from the immense depth of its chalky subsoil. This minerality is crucial to balance the richness in the wines. The Clouet’s 8-hectare property is situated on the coveted mid-slopes, where the vines enjoy perfect sun exposure, soil and drainage. The result is a pristine, full-bodied, balanced Champagne that greatly over-delivers for its price point.

The Clouets were once the official printers to Louis XV’s Royal Court at Versailles, hence the beauty of this bottle’s label. Jean-François Clouet enjoys a family lineage in Bouzy that reaches back for centuries; he still resides in the family’s 17th century home of his birth. True to family legacy, Clouet respectfully draws from tradition and time-honored techniques of the past while embracing modern technology that will advance the quality of his wines. Comprised of 100% Pinot Noir, the Grand Reserve is aged sur lie in bottle for between 5-6 years before it receives a low 6-grams/liter dosage.

 

This Champagne enjoys incredibly delicate bubbles and has a light golden yellow core that moves to green and gold reflections on the rim. Aromas leap from the glass with a bouquet of dried yellow apple, redcurrant, dried pineapple, preserved lemon, freshly-baked croissant, white mushrooms, honey and white flowers. The concentrated palate evolves to deliver more presence of red fruits alongside lemon curd, hazelnut and brioche. The opulent yet balanced palate masterfully walks a high wire between the full-bodied, rich mouthfeel and crisp acidity coupled with the trademark minerality that we all crave from the best Champagnes. To allow the magnificent aromatics of this wine to truly speak to you, avoid serving in a narrow, traditional champagne flute. Opt instead for a white wine stem or a tulip shaped champagne stem. Serve this wine just below cellar temperature (50F).