Jacquesson Cuvee 742 Non Vintage

The Extra-Brut Cuvée No. 742, based on the 2014 vintage, is a gorgeous wine. In this release, the Cuvée seems especially marked by Pinot in both its flavor profile and texture. Dried pear, hazelnut, mint, chamomile and dried flowers all grace this rich, beautifully resonant Champagne from Jacquesson. Best of all, the 742 will drink well with minimal cellaring. The 700-series Champagnes are often superb; the 742 is an especially fine edition. The blend is 59% Pinot Noir (from Aÿ, Dizy and Hautvillers) and 41% Chardonnay (from Avize and Oiry). Dosage is 1.5 grams per liter. Drink 2020-2030.

Based on the highly complex nose that flirts with secondary nuances, I suspect that the percentage of reserve wines is substantial with the aromas of toasty yeast, pear and pear compote and whiffs of Meyer lemon and quinine. The delicious and attractively textured medium weight flavors are supported by a firm but not aggressive effervescence that is quite fine, all wrapped in a dry but not austere finale that seems slightly less dry than the 1.5% dosage would suggest. This full-flavored effort is lovely and for my taste it is drinking perfectly now though it certainly could be held if you would like to accentuate the toasty characteristics.