2016 Pierre Gimonnet Cuvée Fleuron Brut Blanc de Blancs 1er Cru Magnum 1.5L, Champagne

There's a subtle succulence to this graceful Champagne, framing flavors of peach skin, ripe pear, Marcona almond and orchard blossoms. The fine, detailed mousse is raw silk–like in texture. Finishes with minerally fleur de sel and oyster shell notes. Disgorged December 2023. Drink now through 2029.

93 points Wine Spectator

Pierre Gimonnet & Fils is one of the Côte des Blancs' most admired grower Champagne houses, with family roots in Cuis stretching back generations. Renowned for its elegant, Chardonnay focused style, the estate is now guided by Didier Gimonnet and his brother Olivier. Cuvée Fleuron is one of the family's distinguished vintage Champagnes, combining the finesse of the Côte des Blancs with the richness and complexity that come from extended cellar ageing.

Made entirely from Chardonnay, Fleuron draws on Premier Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs, with the blend designed to balance the character of different sites. The 2016 vintage was challenging in Champagne, but a favourable late season helped produce wines with attractive ripeness and freshness. Nearly a decade of maturation has given this release an appealing combination of youthful energy and developing complexity.

Bright golden straw with a fine, persistent bead. Lemon curd, ripe pear and yellow apple mingle with toasted brioche, roasted almond and a delicate hint of honey. The palate is beautifully composed, with creamy mousse, vibrant citrus acidity and a fine chalky texture. Notes of pastry, preserved lemon and gentle spice carry through a long, elegant finish.

Try it with steamed lobster and ginger, crisp potato rösti topped with smoked ocean trout, or a delicate leek and Gruyère soufflé. Its combination of richness and freshness would also be wonderful with tempura oyster mushrooms and a light ponzu dressing.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2035. Already developing lovely toasted complexity, with the freshness to mature gracefully over the next decade.