Perhaps the most polarizing Champagne at our recent Blanc de blancs in-store tasting, Launois' Séverine is unique in their lineup in that it's aged in oak, and that wood comes through! While the fruit is just as citrusy and bright as Launois fans are accustomed to experiencing from this Grand Cru grower-producer, the all-Mesnil-sourced barrels give the Champagne a more hedonistic feel, with notes of baking spice and a Sherried quality. The texture is rich and layered, but the expected Côte des Blancs snap of acidity remains. This food-friendly release is a must-try for Launois fans (so, pretty much everyone) looking for a different take.

Launois is one of our most sought after Grower-Producer champagnes. Everything about the "Severine" (named for proprietor Severine Launois!) sets it apart from other Launois offerings. It's a "mono-cru" (single village) with 100% of the grapes sourced from the Grand Cru village Le Mensil-sur-Oger, renowned for producing chiseled Chardonnay with racy acidity and chalky minerality. Though it is not indicated on the bottle, it's all from 2010, so it's a vintage champagne that's 14 years old. Lastly, it's barrel fermented and goes through malolactic fermentation, both of which add body and weight. Full bodied, rich, dark toast, lees, with notes of orange, grapefruit, dried apricot, pear, and lemon-lime.

Wow, this is something special and different! All Mesnil fruit in oak barrels made from Mesnil Oak - like a double Grand Cru. The Mesnil Oak lends a delicious oaky note with a wonderfully unusual and enticing oily texture. Mid slope Mesnil pickings give classic GC fruit and power