2016 Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs
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Tasting notes
100% Chardonnay from West Sussex and Hampshire. Bottled 23 March 2017 and disgorged 24 May 2023. TA 7.4 g/l, pH 3.2, RS 9.6 g/l. Big bubbles on first pouring. Sweet-smelling citrus with a touch of white blossom as well as toasty autolytic notes and an inviting fruit ripeness. Deliciously toasty on the palate as well as intensely fresh, a good balance of fruit depth, lees-aged creamy-rich and rounded texture as well as mouth-watering acidity. Mousse is much finer in the mouth than it appeared in the glass. Long, with masses of acidity and tension and really refined. The aftertaste seems a little sweet-sour, which brought my note down from 17 to 16.5. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Anne Krebiehl MW, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Brut Blanc de Blancs spent just under seven years on lees. Lactic intensity dominates the nose for a few moments before wet pebble and tangy lemon peel appear, accompanied by briny seashell notions. The palate is creamy with fine bubbles and a lovely shortcrust saltiness. This is compact but rich, linear yet sinuous and beautifully concentrated. It deserves a place at the table and will continue to evolve. The finish is all sea, lemon and saltiness. (Lot: L16BB0742D01)