Lanson Brut Champagne Le Black Label NV

92 points Allen Meadows (Burghound): "(50% pinot noir, 30% chardonnay, 15% meunier, 100 crus, 50% grand and premier, dosage 8 g/L, disgorged September 2020). Discreet if very pretty aromas include those of softly toasty and yeasty baked apple, citrus confit and a hint of baking spice. There is good richness and volume to the moderately effervescent medium-bodied flavors that possess fine punch and solid power on the sappy and sneaky long finish. I like this for its depth and persistence though this will perhaps be less appealing for those who prefer sparklers of finesse. Moreover, while this is already quite attractive, there is enough stuffing such that it could easily be aged to good effect. Drink:now+. (Jan 2022)"

92 points Tyson Stelzer (Decanter): "50% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Meunier from 100 villages in all, and including 30% reserves from 10 vintages back to 1995; a small proportion now being produced with malolactic. Black Label remains the confident barometer of Lanson, and Hervé Dantan’s first blend is a class act, a resounding statement of his talent in preserving the style and integrity of the house while meticulously polishing the edges. It’s a very important cuvée in the grand scheme of Champagne: one of the best and most consistent of the bargain set. 2020-2024. (Jun 2020)"

92 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(2013 base vintage; 35% chardonnay, 50% pinot noir, 15% meunier; 100 different villages including 50 grand and premier crus; 30% reserves from 10 vintages from 1995 to 2012; no use of oak; a little inclusion of malolactic for the first time; aged more than 3.5 years on lees; 8g/L dosage; cork). Black Label remains the confident barometer of Lanson, and Dantan’s first blend is a class act, a resounding statement of his talent in preserving the style and integrity of the house while meticulously polishing the edges. For all it represents, this is a very important cuvée in the grand scheme of champagne, upholding its throne as one of the best and most consistent of the readily available bargain set. It contrasts the crunch of lemon zest, red apple and pear with the toasty, spicy, honeyed complexity of maturity. The purity and freshness of pinot noir are more exact than ever, layering pretty notes of red cherries, raspberries and a wisp of musk. This release has enjoyed more than 3.5 years on lees – impressive, even by Lanson standards. With seamless integration of malic acidity and chalk minerality, it steps the style up to a new level of harmony, precision and persistence, making this the best Black Label yet. Bravo, Dantan. (2020/2021)"

92 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$50 list] This classic nonvintage cuvée has a dominance of red grapes. A rich wine, it shows dryness as well as balanced acidity and ripe spice. It is easy to enjoy and ready to drink. Alcohol 12.5%. (Dec 2021)"

92 points James Suckling: "A fresh, balanced palate with green apples, pie crust and pears. Medium body, fine bubbles and a crisp, dry finish. Nice center palate. Four years on the lees. Drink now. (1/5/22)"

92 points Anthony Dias Blue (The Tasting Panel): "Balanced and refined yet ripe, rich, and generous with sweet fruit, charm, and good length, this is a marvelous sparkler from an always reliable house. (Jan/Feb 2021)"