Les Galipes de Coulommes, Premier Cru Extra Brut 2018

Wine description for Les Galipes de Coulommes Premier Cru Extra Brut 2018 from Jean Servagnat

Colour & appearance

Intense straw yellow with a fine, persistent perlage - a visual foretaste of the quality that awaits in the glass.

Nose

Here you can see what makes champagne a winegrower's champagne: white flowers and Jasmine meet mature Lemons and Kumquats, whose peel flavours lend complexity. These are joined by Lemon cream, a touch white-fleshed stone fruit and notes from white nougat and warm pastries with roasted nuts. The balance between freshness and elegant maturity is remarkable.

Palate

Here, the champagne shines with its exceptional texture: the fullness does not come from aggressive foaming, but from a substantial presence that completely lines the mouth. The mousseux remains present, but finely dosed. Juicy citrus fruit and Spicy notes are structured by lively acidity, while Puff pastry-aromas and sensually ripe fruit provide depth. Everything comes together seamlessly - a champagne as if from a single mould.

Departure

Long and animating with a strong dose of Salt lemon, that immediately demands the next glass. This is exactly how champagne should end: with an appetite for more.

Terroir & origin

The grapes come from Coulommes la Montagne in the far north of the Montagne de Reims, where clay-limestone soils provide mineral tension. The name »Galipe« simply means »Vineyard« in the local dialect - a modest name for a remarkable Premier Cru.

Grape variety & vinification

An unusual assemblage with 65% Pinot Meunier, 25% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Noir. 60% grapes from 2018, supplemented by 40% reserve wines. Spontaneous fermentation with malolactic fermentation, tirage in April 2018, disgorged on 25 July 2022. 1.7 g/l Dosage a real Extra Brut that lives from its substance, not from sugar.

Food pairing suggestions

Asparagus with shiro miso, fried mushrooms and salt lemon, Kinoko Gohan or Stuffed eggs with creamy tahini and za'atar - The salty umami components harmonise perfectly with the citrusy freshness of the champagne.

Special features

An authentic grower champagne that shows that Pinot Meunier, in the right hands, can be far more than just filler. Jean Servagnat demonstrates craftsmanship and an understanding of the terroir.