Champagne Gaston Chiquet Tradition Premier Cru Brut 750ml

The NV Champagne Premier Cru Tradition Brut pours a bright straw color and is initially powdery and yeasty, with notes of bread dough. Medium-bodied, it has an elegant and approachable feel to its notes of fresh pineapple, white peach, and tangerine, and on a second tasting in New York, its red fruits shone even more brightly, featuring ripe strawberries and a floral perfume on the finish. I really like this cuvée, which comes to life with elegant, fresh fruit and offers a creamy, elegant mousse and a clean finish. It can age without a problem, but it’s ready to drink now, and I enjoy the crisp freshness that shines through on the finish. This is a delightful wine to drink over the near term. Made from 40% Meunier, 25% Pinot Noir, and 35% Chardonnay, the base vintage is 2021 with 20% reserve wine. Disgorged in February 2025 with 3 grams per liter dosage, which they have been gradually decreasing.

Score: 90 points -- Audrey Frick, jebdunnock.com, 2025