The NV Extra-Brut Grand Cru Les Carelles boasts extraordinary power, breadth and sheer richness. Layers of butter, pastry, tropical fruit, spices and smoke literally bursts from the glass as this exotic, heady Champagne struts its stuff. I imagine the Carelles might be too much for some readers, but for those seeking to get to the heart of the Selosse style; here it is. This is a dazzling showing. Disgorgement date: April 25, 2012.<br><br>Despite all of the acclaim and recognition Anselme Selosse has received over the years, he continues to push the envelope of what Champagne is and can be. The new lieu-dit Champagnes, which now encompass six different bottlings – all of them multi-vintage blends – are off the charts, but frankly, so are the rest of the wines. Readers who want to learn more about Selosse might want to take a look at my recent videos on our site. Selosse fans might also want to consider a stay at Les Avizes, the hotel Anselme Selosse and his wife Corinne recently opened in Avize, which is probably the best way to visit this iconic producer. Oct 2012, www.robertparker.com, Drink: 2012-2020
Score: 98 / 100The Wine AdvocateDrinking Window: 2012-2020
No tasting note given.
Score: 96-97 / 100Richard Juhlin
From a steep south-facing vineyard and a ‘reserve perpetual’ spanning 2010-2003 inclusive. Has some almost greener herbal elements with lime essence and pepper-dusted grapefruit. It has a powerful and enriched texture on the palate with some gently bitter caramelised peach fruits and some smoky and woody notes. Long mineral finish, drink now. Oct 2017, www.jamessuckling.com
Score: 95 / 100James Suckling
Selosse's current single-vineyard Champagne NV Le Mesnil Grand Cru Les Carelles is made from a solera started in 2003 and with the youngest wine from 2011. Disgorged in February 2018, Les Carelles opens with a very clear, precise and densely woven bouquet with dramatic chalky/iodine notes. Dense, very complex and and long on the palate, this grand cru combines precision with richness and develops an impressive finish with just a hint of oak. Tasted at the domaine in April 2018. Release date: September. Aug 2018, www.robertparker.com
Score: 94 / 100Stephan Reinhardt
The NV (2010) Extra-Brut Le Mesnil sur Oger Les Carelles is the brightest and most finessed of the three Chardonnay lieux-dits. The flavors are brisk and invigorating, with veins of salinity that give the wine its shape and overall feel. Citrus peel, white flowers and a host of mineral-infused notes build nicely in the glass. The Carelles can at times be a bit blowsy. This release is decidedly on the understated side. Disgorged December 2016, with no dosage. Jul 2017, www.vinous.com, Drink: 2017-2022
Score: 93 / 100Antonio Galloni, VinousDrinking Window: 2017-2022
Champagne / France
2012-2022