Gusbourne - Blanc de Noirs (Bubbles) 2018
Price: $109.99
Sale Price: $83.99
| Producer | Gusbourne |
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| Country | England |
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| Region | Kent |
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| Varietal | Pinot Noir |
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| Vintage | 2018 |
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| Sku | 18389 |
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| Size | 750ml |
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Compare with Champagne's Finest:
- Piper-Heidsieck Rare 2013 - 95 pts - $260
- Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Rose 2009 - 95 pts - $277
- Barons de Rotchschild Rare Blanc de Blancs 2012 - 95 pts - $270
And on and on from other famous producers like Veuve Clicquot, Krug, Gosset, Charles Heidsieck, Deutz, Bollinger, Philipponnat and more!
I've written a lot about how global warming has led to previously 'borderline' areas becoming prime real estate for making wine. Almost always, this discussion revolves around vineyards higher up the hill from well-established sites; eg the higher vineyards on the hill of Chassagne-Montrachet, or in Brunello di Montalcino, etc.
But there is one region above all others where global warming has dramtically altered the landscape, allowing for the launch of an entirely new wine region: England.
No way twenty years ago would I have dreamt of offering an English bubbly. More expensive than many of the Champagnes I sell? Somebody pinch me, I am dreaming. And yet, here we are. Not only is the price higher, but the quality is as well. Without question, this latest release from Gusbourne stands toe to toe with some of the greatest names in Champagne like Dom Perignon, Krug, etc. At a fraction of the price, it is also an incredible deal.
Aside from the weather, whose impact cannot be minimized but is easily grasped, the "secret" to England's success is the soil. Even the most casual Champagne drinker has heard tell of the region’s limestone chalk soil and how important it is for the distinct minerality and flavors of Champagne. The Champenois have been extremely proud and protective of their name, and rightfully so, because they have felt that no other region could lay claim to the resulting style. Till now.
Just look at the picture here of the cliffs dotting the English coast in the regions of Kent and Sussex, where Gusbourne's vineyards are. Yep. Chalk. Loads of it. And if you were to look at a map you can see quite clearly this is the same vein of limestone that dominates Champagne.
Same soil. Now with the climate Champagne used to have! If there is one bubbly to make a believer out of you, this is the one.
"Golden in color, this wine shows rich, ripe fruit on the nose with red apple, pear and peach, highlighted by red fruits and floral notes. On the palate, it is generous and elegant with notes of redcurrant, raspberry and red cherry. Floral hints of rose and jasmine are punctuated by sweet spice, brioche and apple pie notes bringing layers of complexity, leading to an intense and complex finish." Importer note
Wine Enthusiast: 95 Points
“This is an elegant blanc de noirs. It's pale gold in color with an orchard-at-springtime vibe on the nose. Ginger spice, red apple and honeysuckle, with a rich, yeasty underlay, lead to a harmonious and fresh palate. Dry and gently fruity with fine bubbles and prickly acidity, it offers elegance and power all at once. An exceptionally versatile bottle for food pairing.” WE
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All pricing and availability subject to change.
Artwork does not necessarily represent items for sale.
