2018 Brut Millésime, Champagne Paul Bara

2018’s wet spring proved a blessing given the hot, dry summer that followed. Temperatures lowered in time for a leisurely harvest, and the quality and size of the crop chez Bara were cause for celebration. 90% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay, raised for five years sur lattes, the 2018 is delightfully open and expressive on the nose, with notes of nougat, freshly-baked bread, stone fruit and red berries. The mid-palate is round and creamy, but tapers nicely to a cleansing, subtly saline finish.