Penet-Chardonnet 'Terroir & Sens' Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs
Producer: Penet-Chardonnet
Region: Verzy, Montagne de Reims, Champagne
Country: France
Grapes: 100% Chardonnay
Vintage: NV
ABV: 12%
Vivino: 4.3
Occasional Wine Note: We had the opportunity to meet with the winemaker, Alexander Penet, at a tasting hosted by our friend "The Champagne Guy" of Grand Cuvee / The Alchemists Imports. This wine was the headliner and it really just stole the show. Small production boutique NV "Perpetual Reserve" wine produced from 2 Grand Cru parcels in Montagne de Reims. One of the primary purposes of going with NV production approach to achieve a level of consistency in the flavor profile year after year. The base wine in this offering is from 2017, but there is reserve content from several previous vintages. The ratings for each of these offerings proves this out with consistent 91-93-point scores. This one absolutely meets that bar. Creamy and luxurious and oh so delicious.
James Suckling
Score: 92
This has aromas of sliced pears, green apples, grapefruit and a touch of white pepper. Some ginseng, too. Fine and creamy bubbles here, with a medium body and broad, flavorful layers. I like the saline and gently earthy complexity.
Jancis Robinson
Score: 17 (Superior)
Rich fabric of complex ingredients and real undertow. Hint of mint. Rewarding.