Terroirs Épanouis #2, Base 2016 Premier Cru Extra Brut

Wine description for Terroirs Épanouis #2, Base 2016 Premier Cru Extra Brut from Lacourte-Godbillon

Character

Lacourte-Godbillon's "Terroirs Épanouis #2" represents the fascinating tension between precision and expressiveness that only the great champagnes are able to convey. The name "Épanouis" (unfurled) says it all: the wine is based on the 2016 vintage and embodies the house's philosophy of emphasising terroir expression. The classic blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, paired with the restrained dosage (Extra Brut), allows an unadulterated view of the Premier Cru vineyards that give this champagne its identity.

Terroir and craftsmanship

The Lacourte-Godbillon family winery cultivates its vineyards in the Montagne de Reims with meticulous care. The Premier Cru classification reflects the outstanding quality of the vineyards, whose limestone-rich soils give the champagne its characteristic mineral structure. The 2016 base benefited from a year that, after initial climatic challenges, produced surprisingly elegant wines - a vintage that Finesse over power provides.

The low dosage emphasises the estate's desire to produce authentic terroir champagnes that are not masked by excessive sweetness. This is not a mainstream champagne, but an expression of artisanal winemaking in which every decision in the vineyard and cellar serves the transparency of the terroir.

Stylistics

In the tradition of the best grower-producer champagnes, this cuvée combines the structure-giving power of Pinot Noir with the elegant acidity of Chardonnay. The Extra Brut dosage (probably less than 6 g/l residual sugar) emphasises the purity of expression and allows the subtle nuances of the Premier Cru sites to come to the fore unhindered.

Food pairing suggestions

This precise, terroir-accentuated champagne calls for thoughtful accompaniment. It harmonises excellently with seafood of the highest quality - such as poached lobster or scallop carpaccio. It also unfolds its full complexity with dishes with fine mushroom flavours or older Comté. Its restrained dosage also makes it the ideal accompaniment to a multi-course meal.