„Les Hautes Chèvres“ Cumières Premier Cru Brut Nature 2020

Wine Description for „Les Hautes Chèvres“ Cumières Premier Cru Brut Nature 2020 by Georges Laval

Character

Georges Laval belongs to those biodynamic winemakers who are leading a quiet revolution in Champagne. His „Les Hautes Chèvres“ is an unadorned, uncompromising Champagne that dispenses with dosage and thereby reveals the pure essence of the terroir. The Brut Nature vinification demands absolute perfection from the base wine – there is no residual sweetness here to mask any imbalances. The result is a straightforward, authentic Champagne with nervous energy and crystalline precision.

Terroir & Origin

Cumières is one of the historic Premier Cru communes in the Vallée de la Marne, renowned for its south-facing aspect and chalky soils with clay inclusions. The vineyard site „Les Hautes Chèvres“ benefits from the slope gradient, which guarantees optimal drainage and sun exposure. The continental-influenced climate with cool nights imparts that tension between ripeness and freshness that distinguishes great Champagnes. Laval’s biodynamic management allows the mineral signature of the terroir to shine through unadulterated.

Grape Variety & Vinification

The cuvée of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier reflects the traditional grape composition of the Marne region. Whilst Pinot Noir provides the structural backbone and depth, Pinot Meunier brings fruity charm and accessible texture. Laval forgoes fining agents, works with spontaneous fermentation and bottles his wines unfiltered. The 2020 vintage bears the hallmark of a warm, early year – with concentrated aromas and simultaneously lively acidity. The moderate alcohol content of 12.5% underscores the elegance over power philosophy.

Food Pairing Suggestions

This purist-crafted Champagne calls for equally straightforward, unpretentious dishes: raw oysters, scallop carpaccio, smoked fish or aged Comté. The saline minerality harmonises beautifully with seafood, whilst the structure can also accompany roasted poultry or mushroom dishes. A Champagne for conscious moments, not for superficial aperitifs.