What to expect

“It takes Dominique Demarville and his team four months of daily tastings to make Yellow Label, tasting 2000 different wines and selecting 400–500 to make up the final blend.

Their expertise is reflected in a gentle trajectory of refinement over recent years, and the 2012 base represents a compelling Yellow Label. Since stronger vintages are demanded to resource Vintage and La Grande Dame production, levels of reserves are increased to sustain Yellow Label volumes, hence a record of a phenomenal 55% reserves in the great 2012 season. Pinot noir leads out confidently with a fleshy mid-palate and bright finish of red apple, strawberry and mixed spice, over a toasty and bready backdrop of bottle-derived complexity, finishing with touches of dry, dusty phenolic grip and good persistence.

Lively acid line and well-integrated dosage make for a vibrant, well-assembled, accurate and appealing apéritif. Thanks to a strong representation of 42% reserves, the 2011 blend is a standout for its season, upholding balanced poise and a core of fresh fruit integrity.”

Tyson Stelzer – The Champagne Guide 2018-2019