2012 Barons De Rothschild Rare Collection Blanc de Blanc Millesime, Champagne, France - 750ml

96 Points – Falstaff

Rare Collection represents the prestige tier of Champagne Barons de Rothschild, and the 2012 Blanc de Blancs draws exclusively on Chardonnay from four Grand Cru villages of the Côte des Blancs: Avize, Cramant, Oger and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. At least eight years of lees aging and a restrained Extra Brut dosage give the wine considerable depth while preserving the chalk-driven precision at the heart of its style.

Blend: 100% Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes: White peach and poached pear lead into dried apricot, toasted almond and brioche, with smoke, chalk and subtle mocha notes emerging as the wine opens. The palate is broad and silky yet remains focused, with a fine mousse and mineral freshness carrying the mature fruit and toasted complexity through a long, dry finish.

Structure: Vinous and concentrated for a Blanc de Blancs, with extended lees aging contributing breadth and a finely integrated mousse. Chardonnay’s natural acidity and the chalky Côte des Blancs profile provide the counterpoint, while the 4 g/L dosage keeps the finish precise and distinctly dry.

Drink Window: Now–2035. The 2012 is already showing the complexity of extended lees aging and subsequent bottle development, but its concentration and acidity provide ample scope for further evolution. Additional cellaring should emphasize toasted, nutty and savory dimensions while gradually softening its mineral tension.

Decanting: No decanting is necessary. Serve around 48–52°F in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass or white-wine glass and allow it to develop gradually; this is a Champagne that benefits from warming slightly in the glass rather than being served excessively cold.

The 2012 Rare Collection is built for the table as much as the aperitif, with enough depth for turbot, lobster, roast poultry, veal or dishes with morels. Its combination of Grand Cru Côte des Blancs sourcing, extended maturation and the structure of the 2012 vintage also makes it a persuasive choice for a significant dinner, gift or further cellaring.