Cuvée Irizée Chardonnay, Extra Brut 2017

Wine Description for Cuvée Irizée Chardonnay Extra Brut 2017 by Régis Poissinet

Colour & Appearance

Luminous lemon yellow with a fine, elegant mousseux – the first impression already promises precision and vibrancy in the glass.

Nose

The nose is of striking complexity and finesse: fresh citrus notes of kumquat and grapefruit meet delicate stony minerality and a hint of nougat. These are joined by puff pastry, a touch of lemon curd, some candied ginger and a delicate note of pear and quince, briefly swirled in brown butter – multifaceted, iridescent, irresistible.

Palate

On the palate, the 2017 reveals itself as more charming and accessible than its predecessor: pressure and minerality are masterfully crafted, yet flanked by a seductive trace of oak, nougat and a delicate sweetness that seems remarkable given the meagre dosage of merely 2.3 g/l. Freshness and depth exist here in perfect balance – a Blanc de Blancs of simply outstanding stature.

Finish

Long, saline-mineral and carried by lively acidity. The finish lingers – precise, clear and with a final shimmer of citrus peel and chalk.

Terroir & Origin

The grapes come from vineyards at the intersection of the Marne Valley and Montagne de Reims – a terroir that rarely takes centre stage, yet is marked by its own character. The vineyard sites in Cuchery, Baslieux-lès-Fismes, Leuvrigny, Troissy and Mareuil-le-Port lie on calcareous clay and alluvial soils, which lend the wine its characteristic minerality and depth.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Pure Chardonnay, vintage 2017, aged 100% in oak. Hand-riddled, disgorged on 5 July 2022, Extra Brut with 2.3 g/l dosage. Limited production of merely 1,212 bottles.

Food Pairing Recommendations

Ideal with a seafood étagère, with pan-fried scallops and pork belly with kumquat chutney or with gratinéed goat’s cheese on radish carpaccio with orange mustard.

Special Features

With only 1,212 bottles, the Cuvée Irizée is a rare collector’s piece. Régis Poissinet counts among the most exciting Récoltant-Manipulant growers in Champagne – consistently terroir-focused, uncompromisingly artisanal.