Jean Vesselle Brut Réserve Champagne NV (750ML)

Alcohol: 12%

Grapes: 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay

Localization: Bouzy, Champagne, France

Tasting Notes: Honeysuckle blossoms tickle the aromatic nose. Toasty, lovely notes of warm, crusty oatmeal biscuits drizzled with molasses and sweet, red fruits characterize the bountiful, layered mouth.

Wine & Spirits 93 pts - This tastes like fresh-crushed apples, complete with their red skins, the flavors enriched by notes of yellow cherries and Marcona almonds. Its rich fruit sweetness builds on the wine’s gentle texture, supple and rounded, emphasizing freshness.

Food pairing: As an aperitif; or with soft, creamy cheeses

The Domain: Delphine Vesselle is a perfect example of what the next generation of winemakers in Champagne (or France, for that matter) is capable. Trained both in France as well as in South Africa and Australia, Delphine is steeped in both modern techniques and family tradition. The ancient family estate (more than 300 years old) is located in the Cote de Noirs town of Bouzy, most famous for its powerful Pinot Noir wines. Her wines have a classic Bouzy signature, but also show impressive finesse and grace.

After the death of her father, Jean Vesselle, in 1996, Delphine has preserved his memory by continuing the family tradition of making outstanding Champagne. She told us that she "tries hard every day to honor his confidence by working towards quality and respect for the wine, with passion and dedication."

The family wines hail from two vineyards which they own. Their vine holdings are 90% Pinot Noir (much of which grows on mineral-rich Kimmeridgian soil) and 10% Chardonnay.