2016 Champagne Philipponnat Extra Brut Clos des Goisses

The CLOS DES GOISSES 2016 VINTAGE is distributed via Place du Bordeaux, and the grapes come from the most exceptional hilltop vineyard in the Champagne region. This 2016 is a blend of 68% PINOT NOIR and 32% CHARDONNAY. The 5.83-hectare vineyard, protected by walls (known as a Clos), is one of the few 'clos' in the region and the oldest and steepest in Champagne. It enjoys a perfect south-facing location on the best slope of Mareuil-sur-Ay. It is truly an exceptional terroir where the chalky rock lies very close to the surface. Clos des Goisses is the first clos and the first terroir to be vinified and blended separately. It is unique and instantly recognizable due to its extremely steep slope. The slope reaches an angle of 45°, hence the origin of the name: in the local dialect, “Goisses” means a very steep slope.

Partial vinification (64%) in wooden barrels leads to greater complexity without premature oxidation. Malolactic fermentation does not take place, allowing the wine's natural acidity to balance the powerful character of the terroir. The wine remains on its lees (sur lie) for eight years in the bottle, also known as second fermentation or “prise de mousse”, at a constant temperature of 12°C in the house's historic cellars in Mareuil-sur-Ay. The very low dosage (4.25 g/liter) gives full expression to the vinosity and minerality of this exceptional vineyard.

In the glass, the Philipponnat Clos des Goisses has a beautiful golden color with a lovely, persistent ring of very fine bubbles. Initially, the nose is very fresh and expressive, with notes of yellow fruit, mirabelle plum, and green apple, but with some swirling in the glass, floral notes of vine and acacia blossom emerge. The finish has a lightly toasted character. On the palate, this fine champagne is fruit-driven and intense, with an enveloping texture and notes of fresh fruit, honey, and linden. The finish displays a crisp minerality and a pleasant salinity. Clos des Goisses is a very fine wine before it becomes a very fine champagne. It is a perfect and unforgettable match for dishes with a strong flavor. In a few years, it will pair perfectly with fish or lobster and soft cheeses. Bottles often benefit from being decanted into a carafe. This champagne has matured in the cellar for years and was only released onto the market when fully grown, but it can be stored for decades and will continue to develop beautifully under the right conditions.

FUN FACT: In the Attachment tab, you will find the official factsheet for this fine wine. We will automatically send it to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to pick it up, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see the potential discount immediately if you select Pick Up on the Checkout page. We are located almost next to the main road with ample parking. Click here for the address.