The 2018 Champagne Bérêche et Fils Mailly-Champagne Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs (Disgorged July 2023) is a remarkable single-vineyard Champagne from a 0.4-hectare parcel of 60-year-old Pinot Noir vines in the Grand Cru village of Mailly-Champagne. Aged extensively on lees and bottled with low dosage (around 3.3g/L), it showcases the precision, mineral freshness and distinctive character that have made Bérêche one of Champagne’s most revered grower-producers.
The nose reveals kirsch, citrus oil, mint, cedar and subtle tobacco notes, while the palate is powerful yet finely detailed with layers of stone fruit, chalky minerality, aniseed and savoury spice. Vibrant acidity and a distinctive wild, Pinot-driven character carry through a long, saline finish. Antonio Galloni awarded the wine 93 points, praising its depth, texture and structure.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A serious grower Champagne that beautifully expresses the Grand Cru terroir of Mailly. Complex, mineral and intensely focused, it’s perfect with oysters, lobster, sashimi, roast turbot or aged Comté. Drink now or cellar confidently through 2038+.
