Country: France

Region: Champagne

Vintage: 2017

Cépage: Chardonnay (100%)

Size: 750 ml

Rating(s): 94 (RP)

" The 2017 Brut Blanc de Blancs Cuvée Spéciale Les Montjolys, from a vineyard in the village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, where higher percentages of clay and an deeper topsoil render rounder wines, was disgorged in July 2024 with a dosage of four grams per liter. A year that was undeniably more favorable to Chardonnay than to red grapes, 2017 is defined by lower-than-average yields and delivered a concentration that Rodolphe Péters compares to 2019. Soaring from the glass with a bouquet of tangerine zest, red apple, spices and bread dough, it’s full-bodied and textural, capturing power without weight. Les Montjolys shares a similar signature with Les Chétillons; but they are certainly no twin brothers, as Les Montjolys is a slightly richer, more demonstrative and less electric wine. It’s a charming rendition that will offer a broad drinking window. It’s worth keeping Les Montjolys more easily accessible, as these bottles can be enjoyed in their full expression earlier than Les Chétillons of the same vintage."

Kristaps Karklins (RP) - 12/24