| Region | |
|---|---|
| Subregion | France > Champagne |
| Colour | White |
| Type | Sparkling |
Bordering on amber, this Champagne is slightly oxidized in aroma and flavor, yet fresh, with roasted nut, leather and woodsy notes. Full-bodied and firm, with a long, citrusy and woodsy aftertaste. Not a typical Champagne, yet complex and intriguing. Drink now through 2020.
As if it were possible, the NV Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Substance takes things up a notch or three. Montrachet with bubbles might be a good description for this profound, utterly moving Champagne. Waves of rich, sensual fruit supported by French oak and persistent veins of minerality all come together in this deep, totally satisfying Champagne. Even with all of the richness and depth, there is no sense of heaviness at all. This is a decidedly vibrant Substance, with fewer of the more oxidative notes this solera-style Champagne sometimes presents. Readers lucky enough to find it will enjoy one of the world's truly great wines. Disgorged October 22, 2010. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2015.
Selosse's NV Substance (disgorged November 20, 2007), a solera-style Champagne composed of vintages dating back to 1987, was even better. This profound, enveloping Champagne flowed onto the palate with intricate waves of fruit. It was a meditative, contemplative wine of the very highest level.
The NV Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Substance is 100% Chardonnay from Avize made Solera-style, with vintages dating back to 1987. The December 4, 2008 disgorgement is a rich, liqueur-like wine endowed with layers of roasted nuts, honey, licorice, dried apricots, tobacco and spices. As is often the case, the Substance presents a fascinating combination of the old and the new. The aromas and flavors are that of a wine with age, but the mousse is impeccably fresh. This is a fascinating, contemplative Champagne, and while it can be a difficult wine to grasp, Substance is also incredibly rewarding. Disgorged: December 4, 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2014.
