Paul Bara Brut Champagne Bouzy Réserve Grand Cru NV

93 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(2012 base vintage; 20% chardonnay, 80% pinot noir, with 7g/L dosage). In these days of ever lower dosage, here’s evidence that a little more sweetness can sometimes be a blessing, especially in the presence of malic acidity, even in a village as exuberant as Bouzy. A stark contrast to the Extra Brut, a little more dosage lends more lift to its red fruit core, and a more honeyed feel to its structure, lengthening the finish. (2020-2021)"

92 points Wine & Spirits: "[$70 list] Six years of aging in bottle on the lees has taken this wine to a copacetic balance, the age converting yeastiness to scents of tarte tatin and puff pastry, the limestone acidity gentled to a subtle bristle. Delicate overall, this is easy to enjoy. (Dec 2022)"

91 points Wine Spectator: "A creamy Champagne, offering concentrated flavors of mandarin orange preserves, dried white cherry and grated ginger, underscored by a streak of salty mineral. Well-balanced, with a lip-smacking finish. Disgorged December 2019. Drink now through 2023. 670 cases imported. (11/30/20)"

91 points Allen Meadows (Burghound): "A discreet but nicely layered nose speaks of brioche, citrus, pear liqueur and a whiff of white flowers. The bold, rich and full-bodied flavors are supported by a generous but not aggressive mousse before culminating in a crisp, delicious and yeasty finish. This is not an elegant effort but to Bara's credit, the use of the term 'Réserve' is warranted as there is evident complexity along with the seductive mouth feel that comes with age. Drink: now+. (Oct 2019)"

91 points Essi Avellan, MW: "(80% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay). Paul Bara's flagship cuvée carries grand cru status and originates exclusively from Bouzy. Led by Pinot Noir and complemented by 20% Chardonnay, half of this blend comes from the 2017 base year. The other half is a mix from the 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013 harvests. The colour has a golden tinge of some depth. The charmingly mild and softly fruity nose has attractive smoky tones. If the nose was promising, the palate fully delivers. Juicy and delicious, with superb acidity and a long, succulent, purely fruity finish. Great-value Champagne. (Feb 2023)"