Bereche et Fils - Brut Reserve 2021

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Bérêche's Brut Reserve is a clear expression of the entire Bérêche domaine; a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier sourced from their home village of Ludes on the chalky Montagne de Reims, the sandy soil of Ormes in the Petite Montagne de Reims and from the clay-limestone soil of Mareuil le Port in the western Vallée de la Marne. The Brut Reserve, with 35% reserve wine, soars from the glass with aromas of citrus oil, green apple and a touch of brioche. The palate is medium-bodied with a great combination of savory notes and fresh fruit with a vibrant, mineral finish.

Bereche et Fils Description

Raphaël and Vincent Bérêche have been farming with their father, Jean-Pierre, since 2004 at their nine hectare estate in Champagne. Most of the estate's vineyards are on the left bank of the Vallée de la Marne, in Ludes, Craon de Ludes, Ormes in the Petite Montagne and the area around Mareuil-le-Port. They also have a small parcel in Trépail in the eastern Montagne de Reims. The vineyards — planted to roughly equal amounts of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier — all utilize cover crops and have been converted to biodynamics since 2007. In 2012, they acquired their first Grand Cru vineyard, a .4-hectare plot called "Les Chalois" within the Grand Cru appellation of Mailly-Champagne on northern end of Montagne de Reims — vines are an average age of 60+ years. The Bereche wines are vinified mostly with natural yeasts, with about 75% of the wines fermented in barrel. There is no malolactic fermentation in any of the wines, and an increasing portion of the secondary fermentation is done under cork. Bérêche's wines are firm in strucutre with ample body and firm, mineral-driven acidity. They are amongst the most sought-after and coveted growers, rightfully considered to be one of the elite producers in Champagne.

Vinous: 91 Points

"The NV Brut Réserve (base 2021) is a bit unusual in this release, in that reserve wines account for 45% of the blend because the base year was so challenging. It’s an approach that worked out well though, as the finished wine is gorgeous. Pear, apricot, white flowers, spice, mint and almond all grace this nuanced, classy NV Champagne. Floral overtones appear later to lift the finish. Dosage is 5.2 grams per liter. Disgorged: November 2023. Drink: 2024-2034. (Mar 2024)" Antonio Galloni