The 2016 vintage was characterized by contrasting weather conditions: after a cool, wet spring, the summer was hot and Sec, culminating in a scorching episode at the end of August. Fortunately, the harvest period, from September 15 to October 1, was sunny and Sec, allowing the grapes to reach optimum ripeness.
These conditions particularly favored Pinot Noir, which revealed remarkable fruit intensity and a silky texture. The Chardonnay, meanwhile, displays a more classic elegance, with a chiselled, saline structure.
From the exceptional terroirs of Verzy and Chouilly, this vintage is composed of 68% Pinot Noir and 32% Chardonnay, with 33% vin sous bois and a subtle touch of malolactic fermentation (5%). Its 7 g/l dosage harmoniously balances freshness and gourmandise.
This Vintage 2016 shines with a luminous golden color, animated by a fine, dynamic effervescence. The nose opens with elegantly toasty, powdery aromas, blending ripe, juicy red fruit (burlat cherry, redcurrant), candied citrus and Secs fruit notes (hazelnut), all sublimated by a delicate roastiness. On aeration, mineral nuances of warm chalk and chalky millstone appear, adding further depth.
On the palate, the attack is generous, ample and creamy, offering a gourmet sensation of ripe nectarine. The silky-fine bubbles caress the palate, prolonging the substance in a rich, transparent impression. The long, saline finish stretches to woody, spicy and subtly camphorated notes, adding structure and complexity.
A vibrant tribute to the Pinots Noirs of Verzy, testifying to their singularity and richness, in line with the legacy initiated by Louis Roederer in the XIXᵉ century.
