Cumières Premier Cru Brut Nature LBC23

Wine Description for Cumières Premier Cru Brut Nature LBC23 by Georges Laval

Character

Georges Laval belongs to the avant-garde of biodynamic Champagne producers and stands for uncompromising craftsmanship. This Brut Nature from Cumières forgoes dosage entirely, revealing the naked truth of the terroir – nothing is embellished, nothing is masked. At just 12% alcohol, it displays a filigree elegance that reflects the current trend towards lower alcohol levels in Champagne. The cuvée of Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier is unusual and characteristic of Cumières, where the often underestimated Meunier traditionally dominates.

Terroir & Origin

Cumières is a Premier Cru village on the Marne, situated south of Épernay. The vineyards benefit from a south-south-easterly exposure and chalky soils with clay content, which impart particular depth and structure to the wines. Georges Laval has managed his parcels biodynamically for decades – long before it became fashionable. The vines root deeply, yields are low, and each parcel is vinified separately. This terroir produces Champagnes that have more in common with Burgundian philosophy than with industrial perfection.

Grape Variety & Vinification

The combination of Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier is typical of Cumières. Whilst Chardonnay contributes precision and minerality, Meunier – often dismissed as a „simple“ variety – brings fruitiness, roundness and immediate accessibility. Laval vinifies in old barrels, works with natural yeasts and eschews fining and filtration. The Brut Nature style without any dosage demands perfect fruit material and precise timing. The abbreviation LBC23 indicates a specific cuvée or bottling that underscores Laval’s philosophy of transparency and authenticity.

Food Pairing Suggestions

A Champagne of this style demands purist cuisine. Perfect with raw oysters, scallop ceviche or sashimi. The absence of dosage harmonises beautifully with grilled fish, goat’s cheese or truffle mushroom dishes. Also an excellent choice with Comté or Beaufort.