Venoge, Brut Millesime Size:6x750ml sage and black pepper on

sage and black pepper on a forceful nose

followed by a dense core of steeped plum and black currant fruit

was relatively shrouded in fermentative aromas on the occasion of my tasting

Autodidact winemaker and viticulturist Craig Wessels does things differently – and fastidiously – perhaps because he hasn’t had any formal training

000 bottles made

Venoge, Brut Millesime Size:6x750ml sage and black pepper onA brilliant Champagne, with a texture like satin and a vibrant structure. The leather, dried berry, toast and coffee bean flavors are beautifully framed. This is seamless, showing precision balance and a long, smoky finish. Drink now through 2012. 1,250 cases made. BS