Philipponnat : Grand Blanc 2016

Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay planted in the communes of Grauves, Chouilly, Trépail, Oger and Vertus, Philipponnat's 2016 Extra-Brut Grand Blanc evokes aromas of brioche, walnuts, pastry, lemon, citrus and spices. Medium to full-bodied, round and layered, it's gourmand and textured with a pinpoint mousse and a long, delicate finish. Disgorged with 4.5 grams per liter dosage in June 2023, it has partly undergone malolactic fermentation.

A classy version, showing precision balance to the integration of ripe black currant, apricot, golden raisin, slivered almond, toast and smoke notes with a fresh, firm frame of acidity and chalky minerality. There's a lovely viscosity to the creamy mousse, a textural echo on the lasting finish. Disgorged June 2023. Drink now through 2040. 1,035 cases made, 100 cases imported.

I like the fresh-croissant, candied-walnut, brioche and apple-crumble aromas here. It’s silky, sleek and creamy on the palate with very fine bubbles. Delicious pastry notes on the long finish. Disgorged in 2023. Dosage 4.5g/L. Drink now or hold.

The 2016 Extra-Brut Grand Blanc is a very pretty, vibrant Champagne. Brisk and energetic, the 2016 sizzles with tension. Crushed rocks, lemon peel, graphite and white pepper all race across the palate. The blend of sites in Trépail, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Vertus and Grauves works quite well. This is a fine edition of the Grand Blanc and a shining example of just how compelling the 2016s can be. Dosage is 4.25 grams per liter. Disgorged: June 2023.

This is the first vintage of the 2016 Champagne Grand Blanc Extra Brut released in a dark glass bottle rather than clear glass (to protect the wine), and they plan to change the name to Blanc de Blancs. The nose is lovely, floral, and expressive on opening, with notes of fresh pastry, fresh white peach, preserved lime, and fresh flowers. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has wonderful intensity and is well-balanced, with a light warming finish and a refined mousse. It has a lovely chalky texture with a very elegant and approachable feel, but there’s plenty of life left in it. It also has a light honeycomb note that I think will intensify in a very appealing way with more age. Drink 2025-2040. All bottles were disgorged in June of 2023.

This Champagne, from 100% Chardonnay, is crisp and taut. With its citrus aroma, acidity, minerality and white fruits this is a beautifully textured wine. It is balanced and ready to drink now.