Jacques Selosse – Initial Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru NV – Champagne France

Jacques Selosse Initial is one of the most sought-after grower Champagnes in the world, a Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs from the legendary Anselme Selosse. Sourced from Avize, Cramant, and Oger in the Côte des Blancs, it is deep, rich, and mineral, with the oxidative, terroir-driven signature that made this house a cult name.

🍷 At a Glance

• Grape: 100% Chardonnay (Blanc de Blancs)
• Region: Avize, Grand Cru, Côte des Blancs, Champagne, France
• Vineyards: Avize, Cramant, and Oger
• Vintage: NV (multi-vintage blend, disgorgements 2012, 2013, 2016)
• Producer: Jacques Selosse (Anselme Selosse)
• Winemaking: Barrel-vinified, biodynamic approach, low dosage (Brut / Extra Brut)
• Serving temperature: 10–12°C
• Style: Sparkling white wine

👃 Tasting Notes & Experience

• Color: Medium yellow with fine, persistent mousse
• Nose: Candied citrus, dried fruits, toast, beeswax, and ginger spice
• Palate: Rich, full, and velvety with an oxidative, saline edge
• Structure: Vibrant acidity over chalky, mineral extract
• Finish: Long, persistent, and complex

Initial is the entry point to the Selosse range, though nothing here is entry-level. Blended from a base vintage plus reserve wines from the two prior years, aged in cask and bottle-aged before disgorgement, it shows the depth and power that made Anselme Selosse a pioneer of grower Champagne. The chalk soils of the Côte des Blancs give it a saline, mineral tension, while barrel vinification and low dosage build the rich, oxidative complexity this house is famous for.

❤️ Why We Love It

• A cult grower Champagne from a house that changed the category
• Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs from Avize, Cramant, and Oger
• Depth, minerality, and oxidative complexity in every glass

🍽️ Food Pairing Ideas

• Langoustine carpaccio or poached turbot
• Dishes with white truffle
• Aged cheeses such as 24-month Comté or Parmesan

👤 Who This Wine Is For

✓ Collectors and lovers of grower Champagne
✓ Drinkers who want depth, minerality, and oxidative character
✕ Not ideal if you prefer light, simple, fruit-forward fizz

Recognition

95 Points – Jeb Dunnuck
95 Points – Wine Advocate
95 Points – Wine Spectator
94 Points – Decanter
94 Points – John Gilman
94 Points – Vinous