Rodez/Eric Brut Blanc de Noirs Champagne NV

94 points Tyson Stelzer (The Champagne Guide): "(2012 base vintage; disgorged June 2017; 100% Ambonnay pinot from 11 vineyards; average vine age 39 years; 24% 2012, 29% 2011, 14% 2010, 11% 2009, 13% 2008, 9% 2007; 90% vinified in barrels; 10% malolactic fermentation; 4g/L dosage). Eric Rodez crafts one of the best-value blanc de noirs anywhere in Champagne. The enticing purity of Ambonnay pinot noir on show is something to behold, encapsulating the personality of the village in gorgeous intensity of satsuma plum and black cherry fruit, layers of fruit mince spice and even sarsaparilla. The power and poise of great terroirs are exemplified in a style that resonates with lively yet ripe and well-integrated acidity, beautifully honed by the frothing salt minerality of ancient chalk. With a full, bright straw hue, it’s at once generous and succulent and at the same time refined and poised, lingering with terrific line and length. Benchmark Rodez and standout blanc de noirs. (2020-2021)"

93 points La Revue du Vin de France: "The deeper Blanc de Noirs (2014-2015-2016) is magnificently defined, both dynamic and full of finesse. What radiance! (2023)"

92 points Audrey Frick (JebDunnuck.com): "The nose of the NV Champagne Blanc de Noirs Brut is generous with ripe black cherry, dried rosemary, shitake mushroom, and chalk. The plate is concentrated without weight and has a rounded and balanced mousse, with ripe berries, raspberry liqueur, and a chalky mineral texture with fine grained structure. It has an elegance within its structure that is quite compelling. A fantastic gastronomic wine, to carry through an entire meal or have on its own, drink it over the next 10-15 years.Based in the Grand Cru village of Ambonnay, Eric Rodez and his son Mickaël lead this Pinot Noir-focused estate today and mark the eighth and ninth generations, respectively, in their family of winegrowers. Biodiversity is highly prioritized at this estate. They have been certified organic since 2012 through HVE (High Environmental Value) and have had biodynamic certification since 2015 through the Demeter organization. Eric attributes his farming practices and especially soil management to his time spent in Alsace. He also worked at Krug from 1978 through 1984. Drink: 2022-2037. (11/7/22)"

92 points Falstaff Guide: "Light golden yellow with silver reflections and a fine, persistent mousse. On the nose there is fine yellow pear fruit, a little greengage, candied orange zest and some biscuit. The palate is taut and close-knit, with lively structure, white fruit, a salty core of fruit on the finish and lime on the aftertaste. Alcohol 12.5%. (11/19/21)"

18/20 points Jancis Robinson: "The Rodez family has been producing champagne for generations, currently owned by the eighth generation, Eric and Martine Rodez. Based in Ambonnay, the family owns 9 ha of Pinot Noir planted along the south- and south-eastern-facing slopes of the village. In total Eric Rodez cultivates 16 ha of vineyards, divided between 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay. Malolactic conversion was suppressed on 95% of this Blanc de Noirs. Terroir d'Ambonnay, Les Beurys, Les Goisses, Les Secs, Les Fournettes, Les Genettes, Les Bas Touret, Le Petit Morin, Les Grandes Ruelles, Le Moulin, La Batarde, Les Bouités. 100% Pinot Noir blend based on 2013. Disgorged September 2018. Dosage 3.5 g/l.Tasted immediately after the all-Pinot Noir Roses de Jeanne 2017 and it's more obviously oaky and savoury on the nose. Rather like the stereotypical Bollinger with lots to chew on – meaty, stereotypically 'masculine'. Very complete and not remotely austere. Dense but also manages to be vibrant and refreshing. Cries out for something to nibble on at the same time, as recommended by the late Edmund Penning-Rowsell. Drinking Window: 2020-2026. (6/5/20)"