Champagne Paul Bara Grand Cru Brut Reserve
Champagne Paul Bara Grand Cru Brut Reserve is a dry, light-bodied sparkling from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir (Champagne grand cru, France), in the sparkling style. Acidity is very high; oak influence is none. Good with aperitif, oysters, fish and chips, eggs. Drink now or within 10 years (to about 2036). No need to decant. Critic score 93/100 (merchant-reported).
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billecart NV Champagne Billecart · Champagne | £47.99 | |||
| Ruinart Blanc de Blanc Champagne HALF BOTTLE 37.5CL Ruinart · Champagne | £48.57 | |||
| Champagne Jeeper Grand Rose Brut Champagne Jeeper · Champagne | £49.04 | |||
| Champagne Mandois Cuvee Victor Vieilles Vignes 2013 Champagne Mandois · Champagne | £45.78 |
Enjoy it now, or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant before serving. Paul Bara’s Grand Cru Champagnes are largely based on Pinot Noir, which grows in the village of Bouzy. This Brut Reserve is no exception, containing just 15% Chardonnay. It opens with a vinous nose of raspberry, lemon zest, and wild flowers – compelling and elegant, with hints of mint and freshly cut grass. The Bara family property, which still serves as the base of operations for the family’s winemaking, was built in the 1860s. The family has an incredibly long history in the region, but it was not until the 1950s that Paul Bara began selling wine under the family name. Today, the winery is run by his daughter, Chantale, the face of the winery, and the driving force behind its modern renovations. On the palate, the Brut Reserve boasts a fine perlage, with sharp flavours of lemon zest, strawberry, and lime. As it opens up, you can also discover creamy hints of brioche, thanks to a long stretch of time spent ageing on the lees. Well-integrated acidity accentuates its mineral elements, which make it a perfect companion for seafood. You can also consider using it as an aperitif for special occasions, or to compliment a plate of soft cheeses.