We tasted: Jacques Selosse “Les Carelles”

Our summer trip to Champagne simply wouldn’t be complete without a visit to “Les Avisés,” the stunning, chic hotel-restaurant nestled within the Domaine Jacques Selosse. This was our second lunch at the domaine (our first, back in July 2022, saw us enjoying the “Substance” cuvée), and this time we decided to try a south-facing lieu-dit: “Les Carelles” from Mesnil-sur-Oger. Sadly, for some unknown reason, the WID app refused to cooperate, preventing us from scanning the bottle. Since we were right at the domaine, we assume it was the current version, deg. 2024 or perhaps deg. 2023.

About domaine Jacques Selosse we already wrote an exhaustive post while relating the tasting of the fabulous rosé, so if you’re interested about their history and philosophy, I strongly recommend reading it here.

Now, let’s focus into this exceptional NV lieu-dit, “Les Carelles.” A fantastic Blanc de Blancs crafted from the eponymous plot in Mesnil-sur-Oger, it embodies a unique set of biodynamic and non-interventionist, natural agricultural techniques. Anselme Selosse, the second generation at the helm of the domaine, alongside his son, Guillaume, share a profound philosophy regarding vineyard management. Rooted in natural agriculture, they prioritize minimizing human intervention, allowing nature to find its own equilibrium. This meticulous approach, from the microscopic level, translates into the grapes, ultimately shaping the character of the future wine. Their cuvées, therefore, become a true expression of the terroir. This philosophy, aligned with the Fukuoka method (permaculture), has already proven its sustainability, quality, and efficiency.

Tasting this rare and coveted lieu-dit directly at its home, the Domaine Jacques Selosse, offered a unique advantage: the bottle had traveled a mere 50 meters from the cellars to our table, ensuring its pristine condition, untouched by the potential alterations of transportation and storage.

As for the tasting notes, we must confess that this was arguably the most exceptional champagne bottle that our palates have ever tasted. Outstanding nose with hints of toasted sugar, orange flowers, jasmine and lemon peel. The palate reveals an infinite complexity, we only had that while tasting a Marie-Noelle Ledru “Cuvée du Goulte”, but this lieu-dit from Selosse has even more finesse, romance, it’s just unreal. Impressive minerality, excellent balance, 100 points! This Jacques Selosse lieu-dit “Les Carelles” is a true unicorn in the champagne world, a rare and coveted gem. It’s incredibly difficult to acquire, whether you’re hoping to keep it for your cellar or simply enjoy it at a restaurant. But when you finally get to savor it, it’s a truly exceptional experience.

The entire lunch at “Les Avisés” was absolutely top-notch. From the exquisite food to the kind and professional service, every detail was perfect. The comfort of our table, the charming atmosphere of the room – it all contributed to an unforgettable experience. Of course, it’s impossible to ignore the magic of that bottle of “Les Carelles”. It truly elevated the entire lunch!