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The Larmandier and Bernier families have been involved in the Champenois vineyards since the French Revolution. As early as the 18th century, the Larmandiers also participated in the rise of Côte des blancs with the renown of their Cramant Blanc de blancs Nature.
Founded in 1971 by Philippe Larmandier and his wife Elisabeth Bernier, Maison Larmandier-Bernier is today run by their son, Pierre, who is committed to offering the purest expression of this great terroir through natural viticulture.
Since their establishment in Champagne, passion and know-how have always been passed down from generation to generation within both the Larmandier and Bernier families. From the 20th century onwards, Jules Larmandier produced Champagnes with remarkable taste qualities, and it wasn't long before many top Parisian restaurants were interested in them. Larmandier Champagnes were soon being served at Tour d'Argent, Taillevant and Charlot roi des coquillages.
The House took the name Larmandier-Bernier in 1971, following the marriage of Philippe Larmandier, Jules' grandson, to Elisabeth Bernier, a vineyard owner in Vertus. In 1988, their son Pierre decided to join the family business, in order to practise the trade that is so close to his heart. Accompanied by his wife Sophie, the couple are constantly improving the quality of their farming practices, having converted their... See more ...
The Larmandier-Bernier Vieille Vigne du Levant Grand Cru Extra-Brut Champagne is a masterful cuvée that offers body, richness, and an exceptionally long finish—the unmistakable hallmarks of an exceptional terroir. The Chardonnays that make up this bottle come from old vines ranging in age from 60 to over 85 years, ideally situated on a southeast-facing slope in the Cramant terroir. Cultivated naturally to reach perfect ripeness, these old vines benefit from deep roots and a rich diversity that actively contribute to the wine’s unique complexity. Originally named “Vieille Vigne de Cramant” upon its creation in 1988, the cuvée changed its name to avoid linguistic confusion with the term “crémant,” thus adopting the name of its place of origin, “Bourron du Levant.” Le Levant, meaning “the East,” bathes the plot in the first rays of the morning sun, giving the grapes a particularly rich, powerful, and magical character, quite distinct from the western exposures of the same hillside.
Respect for the fruit guides every step in the cellar, beginning with gentle pressing and very light settling of the juices before they are transferred directly to barrels. Natural alcoholic fermentation, driven by indigenous yeasts, as well as malolactic fermentation, occur spontaneously within Stockinger barrels and casks. The wines complete their first aging cycle on natural lees for one year, without undergoing fining or filtration. Bottling takes place in July, marking the completion of a purely single-vineyard, vintage-specific process, with no blending of terroirs or vintages. The bottles then begin a long rest in the cool cellars, where the second fermentation and aging on racks continue quietly for an additional nine years.
Each bottle is disgorged by hand one year before release. To allow connoisseurs to fully appreciate the balance and aromatic persistence of this great wine, the dosage is measured with great restraint at just 2 grams per liter. This exceptional champagne is best enjoyed on its own as an aperitif, but its power and complexity also make it an ideal dining companion to pair with poultry with morels or creamy dishes whose richness will harmonize beautifully with that of the cuvée. It is advisable to take the time to let it open up in the glass to fully appreciate its depth. While it can be enjoyed now, this great blanc de blancs deserves to be cellared for at least two years to gain further maturity, and can age for many more years for those with patience.