Pierre Peters Cuvée de Réserve

The NV Brut Grand Cru Cuvee de Reserve is pure chalk, slate and gunflint. A tense, wiry wine, the Cuvee de Reserve needs time in the glass for its aromas and flavors to fully blossom. White peaches, grapefruit and lime are some of the notes that emerge from this bright, crystalline Champagne. The Cuvee de Reserve is mostly 2009, with the addition of reserve wines going back to 1988. Readers won't find a lot of 2009 radiance here. This is a wine that desperately needs more time on the cork to soften. Disgorgement date: June 2012. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.

A minerally version, with a smoky underpinning and flavors of steeped plum and apricot fruit, dried herb and Meyer lemon peel. Fresh and balanced, offering a subtle, spiced finish. Disgorged December 2018. Drink now.

The NV Brut Cuvée de Réserve is an absolutely delicious, entry-level wine from Rodolphe Péters. Gracious and medium in body, the Cuvée de Réserve displays lovely purity in its flavors and a finessed, understated personality. Best of all, the Cuvée de Réserve is a terrific window into the style of one of Champagne's most inspired growers. This release is based on 2013, with the addition of reserve wines spanning 19 vintages going back to 1988. Dosage is 6.5 grams per liter. Disgorged: June 2016.

This is a beautifully balanced selection that's crisp and laced with taut apple and citrus flavors. It has a rich texture, intense fruit and a tight minerality, which gives it structure and the potential for bottle aging.