Champagne Jerome Prevost LC23 La Closerie Fac-Simile Rose

Jérôme Prévost’s ‘Fac-simile’ is the ultimate unicorn-status Rosé. It’s essentially a “carbon copy” of Les Béguines, but with the addition of about 10% still red wine made from a specific corner of the vineyard. This tiny parcel is infected with court-noué (fanleaf virus), which naturally stunts the vines and produces tiny, intensely concentrated berries. It’s a rare bird – only 54 bottles made it into the country this year – and it consistently manages to surpass the massive hype that surrounds it.The 2023 base (LC23) marks a return to a more delicate, high-toned profile. After the brawnier, sun-drenched vintages we’ve seen recently, this release feels more overtly classical and fine-boned. It’s got a beautiful, pale luminosity in the glass and leads with haunting notes of rose petal, mulberry, and wild strawberry. Because Jérôme kept the dosage low at 2.5 g/L, the wine is driven by a vital crunch and that signature Gueux chalkiness rather than simple fruit weight.On the palate, it’s exceptionally long and vinous, showing a sophisticated, silken texture held together by a strong and nicely defined structural grip. It’s a wine that really demands a Burgundy glass and a bit of air to show its full range of spice and floral detail.While it’s drinking with incredible energy right now, there’s a serious core of tension here that suggests it will only get better as it hits its stride in the cellar. A profound, soulful Rosé Champagne from a master of the craft.