Courtois "Terra Nostra MMXIV" Extra Brut Champagne

This 100% Chardonnay is all the 2014 vintage, thus the "MMXIV" on the label and has been aged for over seven years on the lees. It is a selection of the oldest and best parcels on the Courtois estate in Crouttes-sur-Marne. Only 2,000 bottles were made and the wine is dosed at just 3.4 grams per liter. The nose is loaded with lovely sourdough toast and subtle brie-like notes, while on the palate the wine has a concentrated vibrance and electricity along with white flowers. The back end is long and mineral laden. Like the Clos du Mont from Fallet-Dart, this is a statement on how great the wines from this far western part of Champagne can be. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne buyer)