Marie-Courtin, Efflorescence Extra Brut Champagne 2013, France

Tasting Note: A pinot-noir-based Champagne that has the intensity one appreciates in pinot noir with subtle yeasty notes that give way to a fruit-forward sparkling wine.

Medium-intensity gold in color with small persistent bubbles, this wine has an aromatic, medium-plus-intensity nose of orange-and-lemon zest, ripe golden apple, Asian pear and brioche with a hint of red cherry and wilted blossom.

On the palate the dry, medium-bodied Champagne has medium-intensity flavors suggested on the nose supported by medium-plus acidity and completing with a medium-plus finish.

There are some notes of midpalate complexity permeated by light citrus.

A solid Champagne on the fruitier end of the Champagne spectrum.

Bottle Note: Pinot Noir.