Gosset Celebris Blanc De Blancs 2012
The oldest wine maison in Champagne, established in 1584 and now known for their prestige cuvée Celebris
Grape Makeup:
100% Chardonnay
Sweetness Level:
Brut
Ageing on Lees:
9 years
Price:
$$$
Cellar:
9 years
Category:
Celebration
Photos
What
The oldest wine maison in Champagne, established in 1584 and expanded into sparkling winemaking in the 18th century, which remains independent and family-owned.
Where
Épernay; estate vineyards are limited and supplying their roughly 1.3 million bottles a year – 95% from Grand and Premier Cru sites – relies on close grower relationships.
Why
Celebris, once the family’s private cuvée, has been the star of Gosset’s lineup since the inaugural 1988 vintage was released. 2012 was the first time the house produced a Celebris Blanc de Blancs, showing off the house’s talent with Chardonnay. It also shows off some of the house’s favoured techniques, such as blocked malolactic conversion and long ageing on lees (9 years) used to build the richness needed to balance the sharp acidity. 2012’s extreme, contrast-filled conditions have helped craft a Chardonnay replete with tension. Only 15,000 bottles were made.
What Else
The other members of the trio, Celebris Vintage and Rosé, are suffused with a similar electric vibrancy to the Blanc de Blancs – the latest releases are 2012 and 2008 respectively, both legendary vintages well worth hunting down.
Tasting Notes
The nose opens very vertical and clean with notes of asian pear and pomelo, with jasmine tea giving a subtle green edge. This grows in richness, taking on a toasted barley character that is amplified substantially on the palate, where layers of castella and buttered toast -- enhanced by the plushness of the texture -- mingle with calamansi, which lends a pleasing saline edge. The finish has a delicate powderiness that helps draw it to a close.
Try It With
Buttery or toasty snacks and entrées involving pastry, cream and/or cheese.
When To Drink
Entrées.
Perfect For
The very high-brow, discerning friends whose 10 year wedding anniversary you forgot last year.
Tatler Tip
This bowling pin shaped bottle comes in a very cool gift box, making it a super choice for marking special occasions.
TL/DR
Buttery and ripe but blazingly fresh.
Supplier
Watsons Wine
