If you’re looking for a beautiful expression from the Côte des Blancs, the Champagne Robert Moncuit ‘Les Grands Blancs’ is an outstanding option.
Moncuit is a grower producer, first established in 1889, with Pierre Amillet (fourth generation) at the helm since 2000.
It is 100% Chardonnay made with a blend of fruit coming from two of the six Grand Cru Villages of the Côte des Blancs – Le Mesnil-sur-Oger and Oger.
The wine was vinified in oak, lending a very delicate oxidative character and richness. It’s extra brut, so very dry with zero dosage added, just the natural residual sugar left over from the second fermentation.
It is precise!!! With bright citrus and orchard fruit notes, a nervy acidity, next to pastry, toasty, mineral qualities and a creamy mousse that fills the palate. It has a beautiful balance across the board.
Cheers to champagne season (which is every season)!! 🥂🍾 — 3 months ago
Smooth bubbles. Minerals. A nice Apéro champagne — 12 days ago
2021 vintage. Last tasted 07.23.24 (9.2). This bottle (like that one, tasted at a fave resto) chilled down a bit and traced over 1.25 hours. That bottle $120 then...now...same bottle $140 off the list. This visit a tad tighter and closer to the vest. Still very nice. 01.21.25. — 3 months ago
Simular issues as last note — 7 days ago
A pale tawny cherry red in colour. A monopole (lots of Monopoles in Volnay) This from only 1.5 acres. Sappy, but overall aromas are subdued. The palate is subtle, restrained and overall delicate but has wonderful balance and the ideal accompaniment to Roast Duck Legs. Makes the most of its terroir in Volnay aided by the winemaking of Benjamin Leroux. After a few hours in decanter that light to medium bodied sappy palate remains. Certainly right to drink this now I believe. — 3 months ago
JKT
Yum. Leftover still great after two weeks away, in Cali bottle that EW forgot to bring Nextdoor. — 15 days ago