Champagne Veuve Doussot Sélection Brut NV

Today, Champagne Veuve Doussot is run by Stephane Joly, the third generation, and just recently eclipsed 50 years as Champagne producers. You can double that number, and add a few more, for how long the family has been growing grapes in the region, so it’s no exaggeration to say that they have a prodigious resume. Their portfolio includes 10 different Champagne cuvées, a few still wines, and a Ratafia (an aperitif made from distilled Champagne grapes).

Planted in the heart of the Côte des Bar, the vineyard and cellars of Veuve Doussot are located in the picturebook village of Noé-les-Mallets. This area is closer to Chablis than the center of the Champagne region, with a warmer microclimate ideal for Pinot Noir. Because of the proximity to Chablis, you often find similar veins of the chalky Kimmeridgian soil, interspersed with red clay and limestone.

This cuvée is primarily composed of Pinot Noir, blended with 15% Chardonnay and aged in the classical Champagne tradition, on the lees in bottles for a minimum of 18 months. The dosage level here is designated as Brut – giving a richness and texture that intensifies the bright fruit flavors and toasty croissant notes. An abundance of pears, melons, and grapefruits are accentuated with rose petals, mandarin orange blossoms, and a finish of zippy candied lemon. Pure, energetic, and packed with flavor – it’s simply a fine bottle at a deliriously unbelievable price. New “house” Champagne? It just may be!