Pierre Moncuit Extra Brut Mesnil Blanc de Blancs, Champagne Pierre Moncuit 2012

A big, rich and vinous style, the 2012 Blanc de Blancs from Moncuit builds on the strong 2008 vintage. Pale golden colour with a fine mousse, the nose is rich and nutty, offering creamy citrus fruit, toasted cereals, brioche and roasted chestnut. The palate follows in this same vein, with broad bread and butter tones rounding out ripe citrus fruit. The mousse is creamy but delicate, furthering the impression that this is closer to a white Burgundy with bubbles than a steely Champagne. Despite the savoury depth and richness, a streak of bright acidity keeps everything fresh and focused as expected for a wine from Mesnil. Gastronomic and broad to the finish, it is delicious already and will offer great drinking pleasure over the coming decade.