Paul Bara Brut Rosé Champagne Spécial Club Grand Cru 2015

93 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2015 Rosé Special Club offers notable depth and intensity in a rich, vinous style that is quite appealing. There is bit of edginess that needs time to resolve, and yet there is so much to admire. Crushed flowers, chalk, mint and white pepper lend brilliance to this sculpted, vibrant Champagne. The only thing missing is perhaps a bit more continuity, as the finish narrows a bit, leaving a slight feeling of austerity on the close. Disgorged: January, 2022. Drink: 2022-2030. (May 2022)"

93 points Wine & Spirits: "[$172 list] This is 30 percent chardonnay and 70 percent pinot noir—including 12 percent Bouzy Rouge, contributing the pale pink color, pointing up the floral red fruit and the ripeness of its tannins. All of it is integrated into a blast of power, refreshing in the end. Cellar time will allow it to mellow. (Dec 2022)"

Like all of Paul Bara’s releases, Pinot Noir is the back-bone of their Special Club. Production is strictly old-school, with only free run and first press juice used, fermentation in small cement tanks, and aging and riddling in cold, extremely deep cellars for several years. Nothing is released until ready. Each year, the Special Club represents the pinnacle of the Bara process and style. Superlatives seem to be insufficient when describing the experience of savoring a glass of this Champagne. It simply has it all—refined hazel-nutty, toasty notes, bright acidity, some of the most delicate bubbles ever created, and a finish that lasts and lasts (sometimes longer than the bottle does).