Philipponnat Clos des Goisses 2014

Winery Background and History

Philipponnat was officially founded in Mareuil‑sur‑Aÿ in 1910, though the family’s involvement in viticulture dates back to 1522. Acquired by Lanson‑BCC in 1997, the house remains under the leadership of Charles Philipponnat. Celebrated for producing terroir‑driven Champagnes, Philipponnat epitomizes elegance, precision, and depth, particularly through its Clos des Goisses single‑vineyard bottlings that highlight the unique slope and soil of this iconic site 

Producer and Wine Maker

The house is currently helmed by Charles Philipponnat, 15th generation custodian of the family legacy. Under his direction, the house emphasizes traditional methods—such as oak fermentation and long aging—while preserving freshness and texture. The Clos des Goisses bottlings receive meticulous attention and benefit from the winemaking team’s commitment to showcasing the vineyard’s dramatic character 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Clos des Goisses is a 5.5-hectare walled vineyard on a steep (up to 45°), south‑facing chalk slope above the Marne River in Mareuil‑sur‑Aÿ. This unique microclimate gains exceptional sunlight and warmth, which—combined with the limestone soil—yields intensely ripe grapes with vibrant minerality and structure 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2014 bottling was crafted Extra‑Brut with malolactic fermentation prevented and a dosage around 4.25 g/L. Approximately 64% of the wine was fermented in oak barrels, enhancing complexity and depth, and the wine underwent extended aging in the cellars before disgorgement in March 2023 

Tasting Notes

Pale golden with luminous shine. Aromas of pastry dough, glazed tangerine, ripe black currant, crystallized honey, grilled nuts, and fleur de sel. On the palate, it delivers chalky minerality, finely detailed mousse, chiseled acidity, and an integrated, regal structure that carries into a long, racy finish 

Food & Wine Pairing

Exceptional with refined seafood dishes (think grilled langoustine or amberjack), poultry in rich sauces, smoked fish, or even nuanced Asian-inspired cuisine. The wine’s minerality and acid structure also complement light creamy desserts or almond-based pastries 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled between 8–10 °C. Use a tulip or high-stemmed sparkling wine glass to capture the wine’s fine mousse and layered aromatics. Allow a few minutes in the glass for aromas to evolve 

Storage and Aging Potential

Although forward and vibrant now, the 2014 Clos des Goisses has formidable aging potential. With its high acidity, structure, and terroir expression, it can evolve gracefully for over two decades, with recommended drinking well into the 2030s and possibly beyond 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

71% Pinot Noir and 29% Chardonnay 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 12.5% 

Scores

99 – Wine Spectator

98+ – Wine Spectator (alternate rating)

97 – Wine Advocate (Robert Parker)

96 – Wine Enthusiast (Cellar Selection)

95 – Jeb Dunnuck

95 – James Suckling