Vieille Vigne du Levant Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut 2014

Wine Description for Vieille Vigne du Levant Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut 2014 by Larmandier-Bernier

Colour & Appearance

Luminous golden yellow with exceptionally fine, persistent mousse – a visual testament to the extended ageing of seven to eight years sur lattes.

Nose

This Grand Cru from Cramant displays impressive complexity and maturity. Ripe stone fruit meets crisp peach notes, underpinned by fresh sourdough bread and butter pastry. Spontaneous fermentation in Stockinger barrels brings a subtle wood note, whilst honey, chamomile and hay flowers exude an almost meditative calm. Sweet spices round out the opulent aromatic profile.

Palate

Here the true greatness of this Champagne reveals itself: creamy and coating, with a texture reminiscent of the finest Burgundy wines. Ripe citrus and stone fruit dominate, whilst a surprising tannic structure – a rarity in Blanc de Blancs – lends the wine substance and grip. The vibrant acidity provides tension and drive, the final minerality resonates like an electric impulse.

Finish

Long, precise and marked by saline minerality. The Extra Brut dosage of just 2 grams allows the terroir to take centre stage – pure, unvarnished Cramant chalk.

Terroir & Origin

The Bourron du Levant parcel in Cramant benefits from the morning sun in the east. The chalky soils of the Côte des Blancs lend this Grand Cru its characteristic minerality and depth – the most opulent terroir in Larmandier-Bernier’s portfolio.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Chardonnay from vines aged 56 to over 80 years. Spontaneous fermentation in Stockinger barrels, including malolactic fermentation. One year on lees, unfiltered and unrefined. Hand-disgorged six months before release. No blending – a pure vintage Champagne without compromise.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Dover sole and langoustine with glazed chicory, veal fillet in puff pastry with truffle jus, catfish with yellow carrots or mature hard cheeses such as Comté. The structure also pairs well with more robust dishes.

Special Features

One of the most characterful biodynamic Champagnes in the region. The name change from „Vieille Vigne de Cramant“ was made for practical reasons – the quality remained uncompromisingly high.