GEORGE VESSELLE
BOUZY, FRANCE 2008
Why Buy: 2008 was a historic vintage for Champagne — in our view, the best since 1982 — and there aren't a lot of bottles on the market (unless you're willing to pay stratospheric secondary prices). That makes this an extreme rarity. Now, couple that with the remarkable value we’re able to offer, and you have a special, special bottle. And I haven't even touched on the fact that the Vesselle family represents everything we love about Champagne: limited, small-batch production, deep understanding of their Grand Cru terroir, and generations of accumulated wisdom about Pinot Noir's profound possibilities in this hallowed village. The cherry on top? These bottles rarely travel far from Champagne's borders.
What They're Saying: Writing for JamesSuckling.com, Stuart Pigott found "remarkable ripeness and richness" in this release, praising its "beautiful balance of black berry fruits and chalky acidity" before noting its "long, firm and lemony finish with a lot of spicy complexity."
Our Tasting Notes: Here is Bouzy Pinot Noir in all its glory — powerful yet precise, showing that beautiful, fruit-forward style that has made this grand cru village famous. The purity of the fruit and the distinctive chalky minerality shine through, making for a Champagne of uncommon depth and elegant refinement.
The Story: Georges Vesselle's legacy extends far beyond the 18 hectares of grand cru vineyards his sons now tend. As mayor of Bouzy for 25 years and vineyard manager for such prestigious houses as Mumm, Perrier-Jouet, and Heidsieck Monopole, he revolutionized viticulture in Champagne — introducing everything from helicopter pest control to laser-driven planting machines. Today, his sons Eric and Bruno carry that innovative spirit forward while remaining deeply rooted in tradition. Eric oversees production and winemaking, while Bruno handles business development, but both come together regularly to create their distinctive cuvées. Their father's passing hasn't dimmed their passion for innovation, or their commitment to moving forward while honoring the past.
What to Pair It With: The structure is certainly here to match this with a wide range of dishes, from seafood to poultry, but its profound character makes it equally worthy of contemplative sipping all on its own.
Fun Fact: Georges Vesselle's drive to experiment led him to pioneer vineyard cultivation in India during the 1980s — a testament to the family's perpetual drive to push boundaries while maintaining deep roots in their beloved Bouzy.
Our Guarantee: As with all our premium offerings, these bottles come directly from the producer via authorized channels, ensuring perfect provenance. Secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in 8-12 Weeks. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NE, NY, OK & TN. This offer is for TWO WEEKS, or until sold out, and will expire on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025.