This cuvée precisely embodies the identity of the House's Chardonnays, revealing the purity and mineral tension of the Grand Cru terroir of the Côte des blancs. It is based on a notable proportion of wines from Réserve, whose careful ageing - in foudres, and partly in corked magnums - adds complexity and structure to the whole. An average of 54 months' maturation in the cellar ensures harmonious integration of the grape varieties and a subtle patina.
On the nose, the first sensations evoke yeasty notes of breadcrumbs, before giving way to a livelier palette dominated by fresh citrus and spearmint. With a little aeration, fresh hazelnut appears, bringing a gourmet and still youthful dimension to the whole. The palate is straightforward and crystal-clear, with straightforward flavors of lime and grapefruit, carried by a delicate, creamy, perfectly melted effervescence. The elegant salinity and restrained spiciness of the finish follow on aromatically from the palate.
This Champagne, still young, is already showing definite ageing potential. It lends itself admirably to refined pairings such as oysters, scallop carpaccio, filet of Saint-Pierre with vanilla and tonka bean emulsion, or poultry supreme with cream. As for desserts, its freshness and structure make it an ideal ally for lemon meringue pie or sabayon au Champagne.
