Barons de Rothschild Blanc de Blancs NV

What

The champagne house founded in 2005 by three branches of the storied Rothschild family representing Châteaux Mouton, Lafite and Clarke.

Where

Reims, but the production site is in Vertus,Côte des Blancs; 3ha of estate vineyards.

Why

Production is focused on chardonnay and a high proportion (40+%) of reserve wine is used in their NV cuvées and very low dosage, creating a pure, refined but layered profile. Most of their vineyards are in Grand or Premier Cru villages. After disgorgement, the wines rest for 6 months to a year in the cellars to re-equilibrate.

What else

The Rothschilds are so well-known for their love of champagne that both Ruinart and Henriot have created cuvées in tribute to Baron Philippe de Rothschild in the past. The first market for the new house was Japan.

Tasting Notes

An idiosyncratic nose layers raw sourdough, potter’s clay, yellow flowers, honey and bitter lemon. The palate feels fresher and purer with elevated acidity. The finish has a cleansing quinine bitterness and the scent of rain hitting dry gravel.

Try It With 

Shrimp-based Dimsum dishes.

When To Drink

Apéritif.

Perfect For

Your Bordeaux-loving friend.

TL/DR

Idiosyncratic, mineral + refreshing.

Supplier

ASC Fine Wines.