The Black Label's brilliant color recalls the characteristic tones of the Pinot Noir, with glints of amber. It is lively in the flute, with a fine stream of persistent bubbles. Its fresh aromas combine the impression of vitality and spring-time scents, together with hints of toast and honey. On the palate, bouquets of ripe fruits and citrus create a sensation of opulence yet lightness.
92 Wine Enthusiast Lanson’s famed nonvintage cuvée is back on form, giving a ripe style dominated by Pinot Noir. It has weight and already a fine balance between the fruits and touches of toast from four years on the lees. This bottling of this Champagne is very ready to drink.
92 Decanter 50% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay and 15% Meunier from 100 villages in all, and including 30% reserves from 10 vintages back to 1995; a small proportion now being produced with malolactic. Black Label remains the confident barometer of Lanson, and Hervé Dantan’s first blend is a class act, a resounding statement of his talent in preserving the style and integrity of the house while meticulously polishing the edges. It’s a very important cuvée in the grand scheme of Champagne: one of the best and most consistent of the bargain set.
92 Tasting Panel Balanced and refined yet ripe, rich, and generous with sweet fruit, charm, and good length, this is a marvelous sparkler from an always reliable house.
92 James Suckling A fresh, balanced palate with green apples, pie crust and pears. Medium body, fine bubbles and a crisp, dry finish. Nice center palate. Four years on the lees. Drink now.
91 Wine Spectator Racy acidity is tightly meshed to flavors of ripe red and black currant, preserved lemon, chopped almond and honeycomb in this sleek Champagne, with a fine, chalky bead. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier.
90 Wine & Spirits Soft, chalky tannins structure this wine, sur-rounded by notes of pink grapefruit and russet apple. That balance of sweet fruit and tannins will meld with pate de foie.
90 Jeb Dunnuck The flagship of the brand, the NV Champagne Le Black Label Brut release is based on the 2016 vintage with 40% reserve wine spanning 10 vintages. Some of the reserve wine is aged in cask, the remainder in stainless steel. The nose is expressive and fragrant with ripe red fruits, white strawberry, red roses, and brioche. The palate is juicy and round, with primary juicy Anjou pear, Mirabel plum, and honeycomb. A crowd pleaser, this is perfect as an aperitif and for parties. Best after 2022.
