Frerejean Frères, VV26 Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut, Nv

"Bright gold. Very fine bead. Particularly arresting bready nose. The Chardonnay tension is evident only on the very end of a delicate, creamy palate. Hint of putty. Really very good indeed."

"A bright golden colour. Wonderful Champagne with reverberant character with aroma reminiscent of balmy spices, vanilla, Brioche, nuts and dried yellow stone fruits. Hints of candied lemon zest in the background. On the palate well balanced with intense flavour reminiscent of mild spices, Brioche and yellow stone fruit, hints of honey and roasted almonds in the background. Truly a Grand Cru quality with aromatic depth and length "blending" freshness and maturity."

"A blend of the 2009 and 2008 vintages, Frerejean Frères' NV Brut Blanc de Blancs VV26 was disgorged after eight years on the lees. Bursting from the glass with a rich bouquet of dried citrus fruit, yellow apples, honeycomb, toasted bread and walnuts, it's full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, with a frothy mousse and a generous, expressive palate that's underpinned by lively acids. This is showing beautifully in its somewhat old-fashioned style and comes warmly recommended. The VV26 is a blend of Chardonnay from Cremant, Avize and Oger—dominated by the former to the tune of 90%—from older parcels, some of which date back to 1926. It's the highlight of the range by some margin."