Méthode Traditionnelle Reserve Brut

Another Moldovan labeling mystery. The label claims 24 months sur lie, technical sheets claim >36 months sur lie, but the bottling date suggests ~60 months. Who knows? Sparkling labeling isn't Moldova's strong suit. Ion Luca from Carpe Diem recommended this, and he wasn't wrong. Despite the timid dosage (7 g/l according to the label, and you can feel it), this is serious, compelling wine. Intense nose of brioche, honey, jerez, almonds, spices, baked pears, citrus, touch of white flowers. Vinous and intense on the palate - jerez-y, creamy, with baked apples, butter, quince. Some bitterness like crushed apple seeds (I usually like this, though here it could integrate better, so be careful). Good acidity (yay!), smooth, silky texture. Tiny hint of tropicality - think gooseberries - but nothing vulgar. Neat wine. Would kill to taste this with lower dosage.