Champagne Jacquesson, Cuvée 733

Jacquesson's Cuvée 733 is based on the 2005 vintage, although 24% of the blend has come from reserve wines ( 16% from 2004 and 6% from 2001). The house philosophy of releasing a clearly categorised Brut NV persists therefore, somewhat at odds with the historical precedent in the region which deliberately declines specifically to equate a batch with a certain vintage. Jacquesson's policy of so doing, albeit tangentially, is both a reflection of their adherence to the values of terroir and vintage diversity and a self-belief which over-rides any of the specific anxieties felt by the Champenois in relation to the conditions at a specific harvest. Indeed 2005, despite a cool Spring and rather damp July, followed the recent pattern of warm and sunny September weather, producing a rounded and ripe crop of good quality.

The final blend of the Cuvée 733 is made from 52% Chardonnay, 24% Pinot Noir and 24% Pinot Meunier. As usual, the first fermentation took place in large foudres, then the tirage, post-assemblage, was for over three years. The House Style is for low dosage ( 3.5 g/l in this case); Jacquesson were one of the pioneers of this now-fashionable approach. The wine is showing very well now, its classic aromas of yeast, white flowers and white fruit stone rounded out on the palate by a generosity of fruit, born from natural ripeness, and complemented by hints of hazelnut and brioche. The finish, as so often with Jacquesson, is pure and satisfying.
(Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer)