NV Jacquesson Cuvee 742 Degorgement Tardif

“The NV Extra-Brut Cuvée No. 742 Dégorgement Tardif (2014 base) is another terrific wine from Jacquesson. Now at its first plateau of maturity, this is an exotic beauty. Kirsch, ginger, spice, menthol, licorice and dried herbs build nicely. There's gorgeous depth and resonance here. Even so, my impression is that the 742 is a wine to drink rather than cellar, and a fine choice for readers who enjoy mature Champagnes. Dosage is 0.5 grams per liter. Disgorged: April, 2023.

This is packed with interest and has a savory edge with a big, grilled-almond and toasty feel to the nose, together with some fresh, crushed hazelnuts and green apples. The palate has a very bold and punchy feel with super crisp flavors and a big surge of acid-drenched power. Finishes bracingly dry. Based on the 2014 vintage. Drink now.

Based on the 2014 vintage and disgorged with 1.5 grams per liter dosage in July 2018, Jacquesson's NV Extra Brut Cuvée No. 742 continues the house's pioneering series of cuvées that employ reserve wines not in pursuit of a constant "house style" but merely with the aim of complementing each base vintage to maximize its potential. Wafting from the glass with a complex bouquet of walnut oil, dried white flowers, saffron, citrus oil and crisp orchard fruit, along with a delicate top note of fino sherry, it's medium to full-bodied, sapid and incisive, with superb concentration, racy acids and a long, resonant finish. I found it irresistible.