At over 400 years old, Gosset is the oldest winery, founded in 1584 when Pierre Gosset began making wine from the grapes he harvested from his own vines around Aÿ. At that time, the wines from this village, along with those of Beaune were considered to be the best in the world, and Aÿ is still classed in Champagne as a Grand Cru (rated 100%). Pinot Noir is the predominant grape here, and it still directs the style of Champagne Gosset.
Now owned by Beatrice Cointreau, Gosset's production is small and very painstaking. Like Krug, the wines undergo fermentation in wood, leading to a distinctively creamy, full, biscuity style. Gosset is also one of the few houses to practice poignettage, where bottles are removed from one part of the cellar to another every six months, and given a vigorous shake in the process. This reinvigorates the live yeast and adds to flavour, complexity and texture.
Tasting notes: The latest addition to the Celebris portfolio is the just released Blanc de Blancs. A selection of the very best chardonnay from the four vintage of 1999, 1998, 1996, and 1995. A blend of 11 Grand and Premier Crus, this is the benchmark example of the Gosset house style. No malolactic fermentation which imparts greater freshness and longevity to the wine matched with a minimal dosage of just 3.5g/l which further highlights the quality of the fruit. The extended time on lees has built wonderful complexity and interest to the cuvee and is one to watch develop further in the cellar.
Tasting notes: Gosset only uses juice from the first and best pressing of grapes, and unlike most other producers, initial fermentation is still carried out in small oak barrels. Riddling and disgorgement are performed by hand. Significantly, and in contrast to virtually all other houses, Gosset Champagnes do not undergo a malolactic fermentation, resulting in a heightened acidity, slower maturing wines and that inimitable Gosset style – powerful and full-bodied, of unrivaled richness and staying power – in other words, some of the world's most legendary Champagne.
Tasting notes: Gosset only uses juice from the first and best pressing of grapes, and unlike most other producers, initial fermentation is still carried out in small oak barrels. Riddling and disgorgement are performed by hand. Significantly, and in contrast to virtually all other houses, Gosset Champagnes do not undergo a malolactic fermentation, resulting in a heightened acidity, slower maturing wines and that inimitable Gosset style – powerful and full-bodied, of unrivaled richness and staying power – in other words, some of the world's most legendary Champagne.
Tasting notes: Gosset only uses juice from the first and best pressing of grapes, and unlike most other producers, initial fermentation is still carried out in small oak barrels. Riddling and disgorgement are performed by hand. Significantly, and in contrast to virtually all other houses, Gosset Champagnes do not undergo a malolactic fermentation, resulting in a heightened acidity, slower maturing wines and that inimitable Gosset style – powerful and full-bodied, of unrivaled richness and staying power – in other words, some of the world's most legendary Champagne.
Tasting notes: Tender yellow colour with hints of green gold, fine and abundant bubbles. Regular and intense cordon. Fresh apricots, pair and quince. Vine flower nose with a slightly honey backdrop. Rapid and persistent note of citrus fruit on aromas of apricot, mango and fresh fig. Delicate final flavour, dominated by a zest of lemon freshness.
Price: £58.95
Size: 75cl
Colour/style: Sparkling
This item is currently out of stock - please email us or telephone 01483 861164 to order.
Tasting notes: Tender yellow colour with hints of green gold, fine and abundant bubbles. Regular and intense cordon. Fresh apricots, pair and quince. Vine flower nose with a slightly honey backdrop. Rapid and persistent note of citrus fruit on aromas of apricot, mango and fresh fig. Delicate final flavour, dominated by a zest of lemon freshness.
Price: £125
Size: 150cl
Colour/style: Sparkling
This item is currently out of stock - please email us or telephone 01483 861164 to order.
Tasting notes: Light golden yellow, light bubbles. Intense and complex. Aromatic notes mixed with flowers (daffodil, linden flower) and fruits (cherry, blackberry, drying raisins) on a backdrop of roasted scents. Ample, vinous and concentrated. First aromas of dried fig and stuffed cherries and then very quickly aromas of grilled almonds and biscuit. Long and powerful flavour.
Tasting notes: Vivid pink with a lively mousse. Redcurrant and dried cherry on the nose, with subtle floral and cinnamon notes adding complexity. Juicy red fruit flavors are firmed by gentle mineral and bitter cherry skin qualities, gaining depth with air. Finishes with dusty mineral grip and excellent persistence.
Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 91/100
