Critic ratings
vinous
NV
Rating:
94
–94
The NV Extra-Brut Le Mesnil sur Oger Les Carelles (2015) is bright, refined and wonderfully articulate. Candied lemon peel, dried herbs, mint, sage and baked apple tart are finely cut in this nuanced, finessed edition of Les Carelles. Vinous intensity meets Mesnil energy. Give this a few years to come together. No dosage. Disgorged: January 25, 2022.
vinous
NV
Rating:
96
–96
The NV Extra-Brut Le Mesnil sur Oger Les Carelles (2014) is a powerful, explosive Champagne that shows the richer side of the village in its broad, ample personality. It displays the energy and salinity of Mesnil, but with a huge center of fruit and the flavor complexity that comes from the perpetual reserve that dates back to 2003. Lemon confit, orange blossom, spice, butter and baked pastry all run through this dramatic Champagne from the Selosse family. Disgorged: January 19, 2021.
vinous
NV
Rating:
98
–98
The NV Extra-Brut Le Mesnil sur Oger Les Carelles (2013) is incredibly elegant and refined. Orange peel, hazelnut, spice, crushed rocks and a hint of reduction give the Carelles striking aromatic intensity. Silky and medium in body, with phenomenal balance, the Carelles is lights out. This is the pinnacle of finesse in Champagne. Disgorged: February 4, 2020.
vinous
NV
Rating:
98
–98
The NV Extra-Brut Grand Cru Les Carelles boasts extraordinary power, breadth and sheer richness. Layers of butter, pastry, tropical fruit, spices and smoke literally bursts from the glass as this exotic, heady Champagne struts its stuff. I imagine the Carelles might be too much for some readers, but for those seeking to get to the heart of the Selosse style; here it is. This is a dazzling showing. Disgorgement date: April 25, 2012.
vinous
NV
Rating:
95
–95
The NV Extra-Brut Grand Cru Les Carelles is gorgeous. Deep layers of ripe pears, dried apricots, spices, flowers, hazelnuts, pastry, smoke and honey are woven into a rich tapestry of inimitable class and elegance. This release of Les Carelles reveals tons of nuance and character, with less of the heaviness of last year's version. Although the Carelles stands apart from Selosse's wines from Avize, it is really the sprit of Selosse that comes through most loudly here rather than what might be called the essence of Mesnil character. Clean, mineral notes on the finish provide the clearest Mesnil signature. This is a gorgeous wine, especially if given some time in the glass. Disgorged April 13, 2011.
vinous
NV
Rating:
93
–93
The NV Extra-Brut Grand Cru Les Carelles combines the rich, multi-dimensional personality of Mesnil with the Selosse signature style of richness. Warm, open aromatics lead to a vivid, radiant expression of Chardonnay fruit. Smoke, hazelnuts, pears and host of other slightly oxidative aromas and flavors add complexity on the expansive, broad-shouldered finish. This is one of the most distinctive interpretations of Mesnil I have ever tasted Disgorged January 26th, 2010.