Jérôme Prévost La Closerie "&" Extra Brut NV: 2018
A superstar producer making minuscule quantities at his La Closerie estate in the Montagne de Reims
What
A highly talented former grower and now a mini-négociant, having started his estate in 1987 and started releasing champagnes in 1998.
Where
Gueux, Montagne de Reims; main holding is 2 ha of estate vineyards planted to meunier in the lieu dit “Les Béguines” (he became an NM to allow him to buy fruit from his neighbour in the same vineyard).
Why
This new bottling brings together 20 per cent Béguines with similar sites in Gueux, allowing more of us to experience the Prévost magic (the wines are otherwise nearly unsourceable). Based on 2018, this includes reserves from 2017 to add some depth.
What else
Most of the wines are made from a single vintage but they are not vintage labeled (instead they have a lot code).
Photos
Tasting Notes
An eclectic nose of medicinal herbs (ginger, ginseng and licorice) and rosebud tea with enticing hints of red fruit. The delectably plush palate has an oily texture but a brilliant acidic lift right until the very end when tonic bitterness takes over. Fine bubbles are retained long after pouring.
Try It With
Dishes with strong bitter, herbal or medicinal flavours e.g. ginseng or galangal.
When To Drink
Main course
Perfect For
Your foodie friend.
Tatler Tip
Look out for the inner-foil quote: “la fine Fleur du vin sourd de la peau du raisin”.
TL/DR
Medicinal, eclectic but enticing.
Supplier
Avize Wine Cellar.
