92+ Points, Wine Advocate
Based on the 2015 vintage, the latest release of
Paillard's NV Extra-Brut Première Cuvée was disgorged in August 2019. Opening in the glass with delicate aromas
of pear, crisp orchard fruit, brioche, white flowers, citrus zest and nutmeg, it's still youthfully tightly
wound, with a medium to full-bodied, racy and incisive profile that's impeccably balanced. Elegant and precise
to my palate, this is more about potential today, as real complexity is waiting in the wings. The only thing
required is a bit of patience.
Winemaker Notes
A straw gold color and very fine bubbles. Its
delicate hue comes from to the use of a high percentage of Chardonnay and of the first pressing only. The
first aromas reveal the citrus character of the Chardonnay, such as lime and grapefruits. Red fruit aromas
then come out, including redcurrant, raspberry, morello cherry - typical Pinot Noir. On leaving the wine to
open up, candied fruits, even exotic fruits of Pinot Meunier appear with aromas of banana and pineapple. The
palate is lively. The nose is confirmed by the first taste, including citrus, almonds, toasted bread and
"brioche"... but also redcurrant jelly, and dark fruits like cherry, fig or blackberry. The palate is full,
quite long, with a very clean finish. Elegant, but not without complexity, this wine perfectly illustrates
what is "the house style." Blend: 45% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay, 22% Pinot Meunie.
