Fresne Ducret Les Nouveaux Explorateurs Brut 1er Cru Champagne

This is a pleasantly rich and toasty premier cru Champagne. I like the integrated and harmonious flavours of toasted brioche, ripe and dried apples and pears, grapefruit, and almond marzipan. The palate is delicately rounded and concentrated, with a whisper of sweetness, zesty acids, and a silky mousse. The finish is long, with fruit and subtle mineral notes giving way to flavours of toast. I would drink this now, though it can also be cellared for a year or two. Tasted September and November 2023. (Megha Jandhyala, S.J.D.,winealign.com)