Brut Noir NV Yann Alexandre

Professional reviews

BOW (8)

Winespectator (87)

This open-knit Champagne is clean-cut, though a bit woolly in texture, with a smoky underpinning to the notes of whole-grain toast, lemon pith and black cherry.

Jancis Robinson (16.50)

Based in Courmas on the Petite Montagne de Reims, 6.5 ha (16 acres) of vines in 30 parcels spread over 6 villages, about half planted to Meunier, one-third Chardonnay and the rest Pinot Noir. Green alleys and use of only organic fertiliser began in 1999. Herbicide was stopped completely 15 years ago and ploughing begun. They have achieved the highest level of certified HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale 3). Only the cuvée is used from the press, and fermentation is somewhat cooler than ‘classic’, at around 16 °C rather than 20 °C. The domaine ‘brut sans année’ is 55% Pinot Meunier, 35% Chardonnay, 15% Pinot Noir. Base 2013, plus 30% reserve wines. Malo done. Aged 5 years on lees in cellar. Dosage 8 g/l.
Nicely balanced and complete on the nose. Really spreads across the palate. Not the most concentrated but attractive in a flirtatious way. Neat finish. Rather impressively confident. (JR)