Rene Geoffroy, Houtrants Complantes Brut Nature

Rene Geoffroy, Houtrants Complantes Brut NatureThe NV Brut Nature Les Houtrants Complants is a blend of Pinot Noir, Meunier, Chardonnay, Petit Meslier and Arbanne, co planted in 2005, from vintages 2015 to 2008. This is an especially fine edition that balances freshness with the natural complexity of the perpetual reserve. Citrus, orchard fruit, spice and floral overtones all build effortlessly. What a gorgeous and distinctive Champagne this is. Zero dosage. Disgorged, November 2023.

(a 1 ha blend of Groseilles

Tasted several times over the years

Not yet bottled

There is just enough post-bottling SO2 to interfere slightly with the slightly exotic white orchard fruit aromas that are trimmed in a subtle dollop of wood

There is a refined mouth feel to the middle weight flavors that demonstrate good power and an attractive touch of minerality

(35+ year old vines planted in much deeper soil interspersed with lots of gravel and aged in 33% new wood)

The density is impressive as is the power but this is likely to dry out before the tannins resolve

silkiness and nuance

There is excellent volume to the solidly concentrated and intensely mineral-driven flavors that possess evident muscle and power on the firm

Livia Fontana

The effect is almost burly or pugilistic

Exuberantly pinot-like aromas include those of both red and blue fruit