“A pretty wet winter, in 2017, set the wines up well, then it went mild and dry. We’ve locked into this house style with this cuvee. About 9% pinot meunier, and a balance, more or less of pinot noir and chardonnay”, offers winemaker Ed Carr. There’s a bit of new oak and older oak used here (and foudre is employed). This shows what for to most of the big company NV at the price.

If the 1601 NV had a bit more toasty, savoury richness, this one is the more briny, minerally aperitif style. Scents of green apple, nectarine, dried peach and oyster shell scents. The palate similar, green apple, a bit of tonic water, racy and lean (now, though I can see it filling out some), a touch of oatmeal-savouriness is there, a little cinnamon oak spice, and offers briny minerality in spades. Clips along all fresh and perky, a little crunch, lingering grapefruity tangy brightness. Feels very polished and good. A delight, with quiet complexity.

94 points, Mike Bennie, The Wine Front.