Piper Heidsieck Extra Brut Blanc de Noirs Essentiel NV (750ML)

93 Points, Audrey Frick, JebDunnuck.com: " A brilliant pale yellow color, the NV Champagne Essentiel Blanc De Noirs Extra Brut is a 2020 base vintage, with Pinot Noir as the dominant grape, 16% Meunier, and the reserve wine is the first blend from the 2019 vintage and reserve. It features pure red and black fruit, with focused and pure blackcurrant flavor complemented by black notes, tangerine, and a hint of sea breeze reminiscent of oysters. A medium-bodied wine, I love this one more than the others – I think it’s the standout among the entry-level wines. It has a touch of smokiness, but it’s also refreshing and can be enjoyed over the next 10 years." 12/25

94 Points, James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com: "Gunpowder and cotton candy with strawberries, walnuts and lemon zest. Super-tense, medium-bodied palate with lengthy, medium-sized bubbles, crisp acidity and a polished finish. Expected a bit more intensity in the aftertaste. 80% pinot noir and 20% pinot meunier. Disgorged in 2023. Dosage 5g/L. Drink or hold." 07/24

92 Points, Tom Hewson, Decanter: "Such a vivid style here, a world away from heavy, red-fruited Blanc de Noirs toward blueberry, clementine and white peach fruit, crisply framed with citrusy energy and a refined clarity of texture. It almost feels as if there's Chardonnay at play. 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Pinot Meunier, based on the 2019 vintage. Piper-Hedisieck's first cuvée from 100% sustainably certified viticulture."