96+ Disgorged in February 2023 after 48 months on the lees, Collin's NV Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Les Pierrières is based on the 2018 vintage, complemented by some 40% reserve wines. Unwinding in the glass with notes of sweet citrus fruits and pear mingled with notions of quince, hazelnuts and almonds, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and racy, with a broad attack that segues into a vinous, muscular mid-palate, concluding with a chalky finish. Readers will note that with this release, there are no longer two different disgorgements of Les Pierrières; instead, Collin has opted to age the entire tirage for the full 48 months before disgorgement. - WK

The NV Blanc de Blancs Les Pierrières (40% 2018 base, 60% reserve wines) is a rich, layered wine that shows all the explosive energy that makes these Ulysses Colin Champagnes so alluring. Peach, apricot, crushed rocks, chamomile, hazelnut and a touch of reduction race across the palate. This is an especially dense, heady vintage for the Pierrières. This only needs a few more months to recover from its relatively recent disgorgement. Time in the glass brings out notable crystalline purity. This is so impressive. Dosage is 1-2 grams per liter. Disgorged February, 2023. - Antonio Galloni