No longer requiring an introduction, the wines of Paul Bara continue to impress every time we taste them. Earlier this year we shipped the latest releases including the Spécial Club 2008 and the Comtesse Marie de France 2008 - two exquisite vintages to tuck into the cellar.
One of the champagne highlights last year was Bara Spécial Club 2008 - it was (and still is) glorious. And once customers heard about it, then the stock sold out immediately...like hot cross buns (other hot cakes are available). Moving on 4 years to the great pinot vintage (2012), I am recommending this without hesitation, but maybe repetition!
Spécial Club is a unique champagne that is only made in exceptional years. The champagne is brought before an expert tasting panel, composed of oenologists and growers, on two occasions. The first of these tasting tests is to approve the still base wine (vin clair) and the second to approve the champagne for the 'Spécial Club' label. For many Bara fans this is their favourite champagne of the House, due to this one having the most chardonnay in the blend (30%). It is richly aromatic and absolutely gorgeous. This is a must buy for any champagne-lover!
However, if pinot noir is your choice, then the Comtesse Marie de France is for you! One hundred percent!! As the family says "This is a rich, full and generous wine, which will be perfect for a meal served exclusively with champagne." Named for the daughter of Éléonore d’Aquitaine, it was initially created in the 1960s as a special cuvée for the restaurant Chez Denis in Paris. Made in very small quantities, each bottle is individually numbered.
Now, I wonder why the best sounding champagnes come from Bouzy!?
2012 Paul Bara Special Club
£265 per six IB
94 points Vinous (Antonio Galloni)
All the best qualities of the Paul Bara house style are found in the 2012 Spécial Club. Bright, ample and wonderfully perfumed, the 2012 has it all. Orchard fruit, white flowers, mint and white pepper all add freshness. For a 2012, Bara’s Spécial Club is very tight, which won’t be any issue at all over time, but does mean readers will have to exercise at least a bit of patience. Disgorged October 2019.
2008 Comtesse Marie de France
£325 per six IB
Tasty and full in the mouth, with more of the pleasing aromas of the nose, as well as a hint of citrus peel and a slight peppery touch on the finish. This is a rich, full and generous wine, which will be perfect for a meal served exclusively with champagne. (Producer note)
2012 Grand Millesime Brut
£198 per 3 magnums IB
An enticing and complex bouquet with a fresh edge. Layers of citrus fruits, honey and dried flowers combine with fleshy fruits and a subtle touch of spices. Astonishingly fresh with heady hints of strawberry and a white flower finish. An elegant champagne with a light texture and delicate, understated aromas. Makes the perfect partner for a sophisticated dinner in the company of those who enjoy good things. (Producer note)
Paul Bara Extra Brut
£159 per six IB
Bright pale-yellow color with very fine bubbles. notes of apricot, quince compote, warm apple, bergamot, vine peach. Notes of almonds, lemon, fresh pear, pineapple, plums, raspberry, blackberry. Fresh attack, creamy and lively effervescence. Fruity feel, pulpy and crispy, citrus and pomelos notes. Chalky minerality and salinity. A long, generous and well-balanced finish. (Producer note)
Grand Rose de Bouzy
£147 per six IB
Soft, pink coloured champagne with abundant, fine bubbles. Red fruits dominated by wild strawberry and cherry, and the typical peppery note of Pinot Noir. Mirrors the nose with strawberry and raspberry flavours, leading into notes of freshly baked viennoisseries and a morello cherry finish. (Producer note)
All prices are in bond - UK mainland delivery is charged at £18