„Les Longues Violes“ Cumières Premier Cru Brut Nature 2016

Wine Description for „Les Longues Violes“ Cumières Premier Cru Brut Nature 2016 by Georges Laval

Colour & Appearance

Luminous golden yellow with amber reflexes. The perlage is fine and persistent, testament to extended yeast ageing and artisanal precision.

Nose

Complex and profound. Initially ripe yellow apples and pears dominate, then notes of roasted hazelnuts, brioche and honeycomb unfold. Beneath lie mineral accents of chalk and wet stone, complemented by subtle hints of chamomile and white pepper. A fascinating reductivity lends the wine additional tension.

Palate

Powerful yet elegant. The Brut Nature reveals its true nature without added dosage: taut acidity, saline minerality and impressive texture. The fruit aromas from the nose repeat on the palate, but are accompanied by a fine bitter almond note and citrus peel. The mousse is creamy, almost oily in its fullness, lending the wine substance despite its austerity.

Finish

Long, precise and crystalline in its purity. The chalk minerality of Cumières lingers, accompanied by refreshing lemon zest and a hint of toasted bread. Remarkably dry, yet never harsh.

Terroir & Origin

The vineyard site „Les Longues Violes“ in Cumières is a Premier Cru on the Marne. The south-facing slopes with chalk-rich soils impart the wine’s characteristic minerality and freshness. Vincent Laval has farmed his 2.5 hectares biodynamically since 1996, using horse and small tractor.

Grape Variety & Vinification

A blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Aged in used barrels with weekly topping up, no fining or filtration, minimal sulphur addition. 18 months cellar ageing. Zero dosage underscores the house’s purist philosophy.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Oysters, scallops with nut butter, pan-fried turbot, calf’s sweetbreads, aged Comté or Beaufort d’Alpage. The minerality harmonises beautifully with sushi and sashimi.

Special Characteristics

Vincent Laval is regarded as one of Champagne’s most radical purists. His uncompromising approach and organic farming since 1971 make this estate a hidden gem for connoisseurs of authentic, unfiltered Champagne.