Launois "Quartz" Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne

Staff Reviews

KW

Kirk Walker

Kirk Walker

Review Date: 07/2026

This has always been my favorite bottling from Launois. All of them are good, but his just speaks to me differently. Superficially, it is the green on the label. But truly, it is the fruit, or the wine beneath the bubbles. There is a dazzling purity that makes me want more and more! Is it the softer pressure? Probably, there are not that many other Champagnes out there to compare it against. It tastes great. And if you are inclined, it is fun to taste this against the Reserve. But when is more Launois not fun?

SB

Scott Beckerley

Scott Beckerley

Review Date: 06/2026

The NV Launois “Quartz” is a half-pressure (three atmospheres of pressure versus the typical six) bottling in the crémant style. It is at once delicate, mouth filling and zesty. Composed of 100% chardonnay from the world-renowned chardonnay producing area of Mesnil (and Aviz and Oger), it has flavors of green apples, brioche, creamy vanilla and lemon zest. Loads of cream and vanilla at the back of the palate make this a great way to start a meal with light appetizers.

DO

David Othenin-Girard

David Othenin-Girard

Review Date: 06/2026

I have to say, not only do I love to drink the special wines from Launois, I'm legit proud that we're the only source for this incredible products. The quality-to-price ratio is unprecedented and it's easy to argue that Launois should be considered one of the region's top producers. The fact that we can get this gorgeous cuvée to our customers for this price is nothing less than a miracle. Vibrant, complex and so absolutely quaffable, the Quartz is a go-to for literally any occasion, but is especially fabulous with oysters. Just saying.

Notes

The Quartz comes from the famous Les Chétillons parcel in Le Mesnil sur Oger and has four atmospheres (59 psi) of pressure instead of the normal six (88 psi). While I would be hard pressed to tell by looking at or tasting this Champagne that it has lighter carbonation, it tastes very different from the Reserve due to the wonderful vineyard site. Since less yeast and sugar were added to the wine during bottling, it has less leesy flavor, and because there is less dissolved carbon dioxide in the wine the flavors of the grapes underneath shine more. Look for flavors of apple and brioche in this creamy, supple, mouthfilling Champagne. It is perfect for cocktail parties and as a starter for any event, and great to taste side by side with the Reserve. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne buyer)