Paul Bara, 'Special Club' Brut Grand Cru, Champagne, France, 2015

Overview of the Wine
The Montagne de Reims boasts some of the best Pinot Noir in the region—Bouzy is the capital. The key to its inherent greatness lies in its deep, chalky subsoil which imparts intense expression of fruit and great mineral complexity in its grand cru wines. The village of Bouzy and Champagne Paul Bara are practically synonymous. As the published village historian, Paul is indelibly linked to the lore of his hometown. Many call him their most renowned producer, one of the rare récoltants-manipulants in a region inundated with mass-produced wine. These R.M.s, as they are known, are of the few who still grow their own grapes and make their own wines. Champagne Paul Bara is the quintessential example, everything done with personal touch.

Grape / Blend
70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay

Origin
Champagne, France

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
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).

94 Points - Vinous
The 2015 Special Club is one of the more powerful, vinous Champagnes in this range. It offers up a beguiling mix of orchard fruit, white flowers, chalk, mint and white pepper, all backed by considerable volume and substance. Another year or two in bottle should help this find even better balance. It’s a fine 2015. Disgorged: February, 2021. Drink: 2022-2030.

Product size: 750ml