Paillard/Bruno Extra Brut Rosé Champagne NEC Plus Ultra 2008

95 points Yohan Castaing (Wine Advocate): "Paillard’s inaugural 2008 N.P.U. Nec Plus Ultra Rosé is a blend of equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir disgorged in February 2022 with three grams per liter dosage. It reveals a dense, complex bouquet with aromas of red berries, blood orange, orchard fruits, pepper, verbena and spring flowers. Medium to full-bodied, broad and vinous, it's phenolic with a beautifully fine-boned profile and an ethereal, long finish. This is a structured Champagne that will merit cellaring, but it already exudes freshness and clarity, leading to a finish with a light note of gastronomic bitterness. It should go well with delicate fare. Drink: 2023-2043. (11/16/23)"

95 points Tom Hewson (Decanter): "A small red wine addition creates this cuvée, which is an equal split between grand cru Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, fermented entirely in small oak barrels and aged on the lees for over 10 years. The long lees ageing and barrel work imbues highly expressive richness of oyster cream, cocoa and allspice, while blackberry and charred grapefruit notes are still present, a reminder of youthfulness. The Pinot Noir has softened into dried hibiscus and red plum, autumnal and complex, but still adds a little flesh to the highly concentrated, firm 2008 palate. Released at a peak of evolution, this will be at its most vibrant within three years of disgorgement. Drinking Window: 2023-2030. (Oct 2023)"