Champagne Henriot Brut Souverain N/V 1.5L

1. Featuring, as usual for this cuvee, a relatively high proportion of Chardonnay; no Meunier; and 15-20% reserve wine, Henriot’s NV Brut Souverain Disg. 4/2012 offers a delightfully crunchy-yet-creamy, slaw-like amalgam of fresh apple, celery root, grapefruit and almond, to which a whiff of elder flower adds aromatic allure. The lush mid-palate takes a faintly oily turn even as tart citricity wells up with greater impact, leading to a luscious finish that irresistibly urges one take the next sip. I fancy this being best enjoyed over the coming year. Score: 90 points -- Wine Advocate, Nov 2013

2. Firm and toasty, with hints of tropical fruit mixing with notes of quince, lemon zest, smoky mineral, ginger and white pepper. This finds a balance between its fresh, lively character and a sweet, juicy component, ending with a long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2021. Score: 93 points -- Wine Spectator, Nov 2011

3. Light gold. Lees-accented orchard and citrus fruit aromas are complicated by sweet butter, iodine and smoky minerals. Dry and expansive on the palate, offering lively pear and melon flavors and a refreshingly bitter touch of orange pith. Ample but lithe brut, with very good finishing punch and repeating smoke and pear qualities. Score: 90 points -- Vinous, Jan 2015