NV Bereche et Fils Brut Reserve

The NV Brut Réserve is the foundational wine at Bérêche, and the latest release is based on the 2022 vintage, incorporating a 40% perpetual reserve component, uniting the freshness of the northern slopes and the maturity of the hot, dry vintage. Fruit for this wine comes from vineyard sites across the Montagne de Reims and the Vallée de Marne, and the Champagne was disgorged in October 2024 with six grams per liter dosage. Bursting from the glass with aromas of nectarine, orange zest and brioche, it's medium- to full-bodied and ample, with considerable density, underpinned by racy acidity and concluding with a chalky finish. The Brut Réserve has seen the most refinements in recent years as it no longer incorporates tailles and now features Chardonnay from Trépail; technically, this means that the pH is lower and the acidity is higher. It’s one of the most reliable entry-level NV bottlings on the market.

35% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Meunier, 30% Pinot Noir. Base 2020. Dosage 6 g/l. Disgorged September 2023. Frangipani nose. It tastes sweet after all these zero-dosage wines! But in a very welcome way … Daisies and white apricots. Pretty and delicate. Like a slice of chiffon cake. Tiny cumin note on the end. A lovely aperitif wine – not tiring or demanding, easy natural balance. (TC)

The current release of the NV Champagne Brut Reserve is based on the 2019 vintage. It is roughly equal parts Chardonnay, Meunier, and Pinot Noir, with 35% reserve wine blended in. Fruity, floral, and open, with notes of fresh citrus blossoms, orchard fruits, and fresh bread, the palate is generous and approachable, with apricot, berries, and a lightly savory broth. This is consistently one of the best entry wines that versatile enough to drink alone or to accompany a meal. Drink 2022-2030.