Eric Rodez Blanc de Noirs NV (750ML)

Disgorged in April 2020 with four grams per liter dosage, the latest release of Rodez' NV Brut Blanc de Noirs is already quite expressive, offering up aromas of mirabelle plum, raspberries, toasted almonds, honeycomb and white flowers. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and gourmand, with ripe but racy acids and an enveloping core of fruit that's complemented by a pillowy mousse, it's extroverted but precise. What's more, it will be even better with a year or two on cork.

(all pinot noir from Ambonnay; L10-12): Light gold. Spicy blood orange and strawberry on the nose, with subtle floral pastille and musky herbal character. Bitter cherry and orange pith flavors are impressively concentrated and focused. Aeration brings up a sweeter raspberry quality that carries through a long, incisive, smoke-tinged finish. This powerful Champagne could handle the richest cheeses and charcuterie with ease.

92 Points, Audrey Frick, JebDunnuck.com: "The nose of the NV Champagne Blanc de Noirs Brut is generous with ripe black cherry, dried rosemary, shitake mushroom, and chalk. The plate is concentrated without weight and has a rounded and balanced mousse, with ripe berries, raspberry liqueur, and a chalky mineral texture with fine grained structure. It has an elegance within its structure that is quite compelling. A fantastic gastronomic wine, to carry through an entire meal or have on its own, drink it over the next 10-15 years." 11/22