A classy version, showing precision balance to the integration of ripe black currant, apricot, golden raisin, slivered almond, toast and smoke notes with a fresh, firm frame of acidity and chalky minerality. There's a lovely viscosity to the creamy mousse, a textural echo on the lasting finish. Disgorged June 2023. Drink now through 2040. 1,035 cases made, 100 cases imported.
94 points, Alison Napjus, Wine Spectator (Nov 2024)
I like the fresh-croissant, candied-walnut, brioche and apple-crumble aromas here. It’s silky, sleek and creamy on the palate with very fine bubbles. Delicious pastry notes on the long finish. Disgorged in 2023. Dosage 4.5g/L. Drink now or hold.
94 points, James Suckling (Jul 2024)
Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay planted in the communes of Grauves, Chouilly, Trépail, Oger and Vertus, Philipponnat's 2016 Extra-Brut Grand Blanc evokes aromas of brioche, walnuts, pastry, lemon, citrus and spices. Medium to full-bodied, round and layered, it's gourmand and textured with a pinpoint mousse and a long, delicate finish. Disgorged with 4.5 grams per liter dosage in June 2023, it has partly undergone malolactic fermentation.
93 points, Yohan Castaing, Wine Advocate (Oct 2024)
This is the first vintage of the 2016 Champagne Grand Blanc Extra Brut released in a dark glass bottle rather than clear glass (to protect the wine), and they plan to change the name to Blanc de Blancs. The nose is lovely, floral, and expressive on opening, with notes of fresh pastry, fresh white peach, preserved lime, and fresh flowers. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has wonderful intensity and is well-balanced, with a light warming finish and a refined mousse. It has a lovely chalky texture with a very elegant and approachable feel, but there’s plenty of life left in it. It also has a light honeycomb note that I think will intensify in a very appealing way with more age. Drink 2025-2040. All bottles were disgorged in June of 2023.
93 points, Audrey Frick, Jeb Dunnuck (Dec 2024)
This Champagne, from 100% Chardonnay, is crisp and taut. With its citrus aroma, acidity, minerality and white fruits this is a beautifully textured wine. It is balanced and ready to drink now.
93 points, Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast (Dec 2024)