NV Jacques Selosse Initial
Buying options
Tasting notes
I love this release of the NV Champagne Grand Cru Blanc De Blancs Initial, which comes from the 2018, 2017, and 2016 vintages and originates from the lower slopes in Avize, Cramant, and Oger. Golden straw-colored, it has a great deal of depth and complexity. It’s a touch volatile on opening, but that quickly blows off to reveal deeper aromatics of nectarine, smoky wet stones, citrus oils, toast, and praline. Full-bodied and both fruity and savory, with lovely extract and generosity and a pleasing warmth on the finish, this is stunning already and should provide a wide window for enjoyment over the coming 15 or so years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The latest release of the NV Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Initial, a cuvée that derives from the bottom part of the slopes mostly in Avize, Cramant and a bit of Oger, is based on the 2018 vintage with some 35% reserve wines from 2017 and 2016 and disgorged in June 2024 with two grams per liter dosage. Its relative generosity is informed by the mostly south-facing vines (with a minority facing east), and the topsoil here is less rich in clay and with more fragmented chalk bedrock compared to the higher-altitude parcels that produce Version Originale. Soaring from the glass with aromas of tangerine, beeswax and pear, it’s ample and demonstrative, balanced with vibrant acidity and chalky structuring extract bringing freshness to its rich core of fruit. When the tasting begins with such quality, there is no question you’re in the presence of genius.
Very pronounced and wonderfully complex nose of persimmon, egg yolk, cinnamon, tarte tatin, caramel, mango pastry, apricot tart and spice box. The full-bodied palate feathers a fine line between sheer power, luscious dried fruit and laser-guided acidity. Very long and intense on the finish. Drink now or hold. Disgorged 13 November 2018.
Blend of Avize, Cramant and Oger. 100% Chardonnay. Three consecutive years 2011–2013. 5 years on lees approximately. Wild yeasts. Dosage 5g/l. Deep golden straw. Very distinctively savoury on the nose – broad like a bold (not modern and austere) white burgundy. Hits the very back of the palate with umami and Marmite. Real weight and real length to this. Tastes bone dry but not painful. (JR)
About the producer
Under the tenure of Anselme Selosse, Domaine Jacques Selosse became the leading light in the grower Champagne movement – producing unique, peerless Champagnes that are the most fiercely collected and expensive in the world.