Decanter 96 Points
The nose is shy and subtle, though notions of red apple, peppery rye crumb, stone and lemon emerge with more air. Tightly coiled, the palate suggests spicy riches with its insinuations of white pepper and tangerine peel. A lovely interplay of Pinot richness and Chardonnay slinkiness, showing depth, svelteness and elegance. It justs needs air to breathe. Gorgeous.
James Suckling 94 Points
Complex and very inviting nose of buttered bread, apricots, orange fruit, crushed chalk and salted almonds. Lovely texture and balance, with layers of fresh salinity and minerality. Medium-bodied.
Jeb Dunnuck 93 Points
Equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the NV Champagne Grand Crus Prelude Brut is based on the 2017 vintage and comes from the villages of Ambonnay and Bouzy for the Pinot Noir and Mesnil-sur-Oger and Chouilly for the Chardonnay. The same release that I tasted last year, it’s developing nicely and harmonizing, with aromas of toasted almond, lemon custard, ripe orchard fruit, and fresh chalky earth. Filling the palate, it’s full-bodied and powerful, with a driving texture of citrus oils and a long, savory, mineral-toned finish.
Wine Spectator 91 points
Firm and lightly smoky, showing a snappy acidic frame meshed with flavors of crunchy white peach, crushed almond, fleur de sel and preserved lemon. Vivacious, spiced finish. Drink now through 2022. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 5,000 cases made, 300 cases imported.
