Paillard/Pierre Extra Brut Champagne Les Parcelles XX Bouzy NV 1.5L

92 points Kristaps Karklins (Wine Advocate): "Paillard’s NV Bouzy Grand Cru Les Parcelles XX hails from the 2020 vintage and, in keeping with the tradition, incorporates 20% reserve wines. It embodies the signature blend of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay, sourced exclusively from the sun-drenched, south-facing slopes of Bouzy. The bouquet is expressive, unfolding with aromas of pear, ripe citrus and warm spices, mingling with nuances of toasted bread and orange zest. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied, showcasing a livelier, more luminous fruit profile than its predecessor, driven by racy acidity and finishing with a pronounced saline finish. True to the estate’s approach, maturation take place in 350-liter oak barrels, with the final cuvée composed from a mosaic of approximately 25 distinct parcels across Bouzy. The dosage is set at two grams per liter. Drink: 2025-2034. (5/8/25)"

92 points Falstaff Guide: "Brilliant golden yellow with reddish reflections. An intense nose of toast, lardo, stewed plums and hints of bergamot, with almond mousse and fir honey too. Rich on the palate with a full body and fine, juicy mousse lending a vinous character. There's a great deal of extract with a refreshing aftertaste of salted lemon and finely tart grilled herbs. A great accompaniment to food. (10/4/24)" Producer notes: "Les Parcelles is a precise expression of Bouzy terroir vinified by the Paillard brothers; the powerful Pinot Noir from south-facing slopes is balanced by the finesse of the chalky subsoil. Produced mainly from the 2020 harvest, with 20% reserve wines, this cuvée is composed of 80% pinot noir and 20% chardonnay. Fermented in oak, it is cellared for three years on lees before disgorgement. Dosage: 2 g/l."