No. 1 Family Estate Assemble Cuvee NV

No.1 Family Estate Assemblé is a polished Marlborough méthode traditionnelle that brings Chardonnay and Pinot Noir together in a generous, crowd-friendly Brut style. Fresh peach and citrus meet white flowers, warm bread and subtle savoury notes, while extended lees ageing adds mealy texture and complexity. The palate is full and creamy, balanced by fresh acidity and a fine, persistent mousse that carries into a dry, lingering finish. It offers plenty of traditional-method character without becoming heavy, making it equally comfortable as a celebratory aperitif or alongside oysters, crisp fried seafood and savoury cheese pastries.

What the winery says:

Assemblé means to bring together, blend and unite. The non-vintage cuvée comprises 65% Chardonnay and 35% Pinot Noir and is made in a Brut style. It spends more than 18 months ageing on lees, developing aromas of freshly baked bread, peach, citrus and white flowers. The palate mirrors the bouquet, adding subtle savoury flavours, mealy texture and a delicate leesy finish supported by a fine mousse. The current release was disgorged from October 2025 onwards and contains 12.5% alcohol and 3 grams per litre of residual sugar. Suggested cellaring is 3 to 5 years.

What the experts say:

Candice Chow, 94/100
“Fresh and lively acidity intertwined toasted, creamy autolysis characters, unfolding a touch of stony minerals and a long finish. Satisfying and opulent.”

Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, 94/100

Cameron Douglas MS, 93/100