Mesnil Experience Blanc de Blancs Brut

The disgorgement date remains a mystery, as the imprint on the counter label is barely discernible. Despite attempts to highlight it with a marker across three bottles, we gave up trying. We could make out the number 18, but whether it signifies a day or a year is unclear.

Regardless, the wine itself is delightful, exhibiting lovely development. It features a relatively grand and charming nose with aromas of baked apple, cider, chalk, gingerbread, honey, and a hint of damp cellar. The wine surprises with unexpectedly high acidity, which is well-balanced. On the palate, it is elegant and refined, with a very long and flavorful finish dominated by notes of chalk and ginger.