Cuvée des Caudalies „Le Mesnil“ Grand Cru Extra Brut 2013

Wine Description for Cuvée des Caudalies „Le Mesnil“ Grand Cru Extra Brut 2013 by De Sousa

Colour & Appearance

Deep golden yellow to old gold – a visual testament to remarkable maturity and extended yeast contact. The perlage displays itself as fine and persistent, underscoring the artisanal quality.

Nose

Opulent and baroque. This Champagne pulls no punches: honeycomb, quince jelly and dried yellow pears dominate with lavish generosity. These are joined by candied ginger and a fascinating maritime note of fresh oysters, lending complexity and depth. No minimalist restraint here, but rather confident abundance – a Champagne that wears its Le Mesnil provenance with pride.

Palate

Creamy and almost weightless at once. The mousse works like glittering stardust, illuminating the rich texture. The crumbly maturity and substantial extract lend this Extra Brut an irresistible charm, never appearing heavy. Despite the abundance, definition remains precise – a balancing act that De Sousa executes masterfully. The aromatics mirror the nose perfectly and flow with elegant assurance.

Finish

Long, spicy and of sustained complexity. The low dosage of just three grams allows the terroir and maturity to take centre stage.

Terroir & Origin

Grand Cru Le Mesnil-sur-Oger – one of Champagne’s most prestigious terroirs for Chardonnay. The vines, over 60 years old, yield grapes of extraordinary concentration and mineral depth, perfectly expressing the chalky terroir of the Côte des Blancs.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Chardonnay, spontaneously fermented with wild yeasts in wooden barrels and regularly stirred on the lees (bâtonnage). Unfiltered and bottled in July 2014, disgorged in November 2022 after over eight years on the lees – a Blanc de Blancs with substance and character.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The richness demands equally worthy partners: lobster with tarragon, crostini with goat’s cheese and golden beetroot or honey-glazed guinea fowl with rosemary. A large Burgundy glass is essential.

Special Features

A Champagne that deliberately works against the trend of restraint, instead celebrating baroque opulence – whilst never losing balance. A must for lovers of mature, expressive Champagnes.