NV Laherte Frères Blanc de Blancs, Brut Nature, Champagne, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

"Our Blanc de Blancs is made with our best parcels on the south slopes of Epernay. This is a perfect representation of the purity and energy coming from this area and the complexity of old vins of Chardonnay." Most of the vines are around 35 years old. 50% of reserve wines from previous vintages aged in barrels on lees are included. The grapes are hand harvested and traditionally pressed. Primary fermentation takes place in small foudres and barrels with a few battonages. Partial maloactic is used with aging on the fine lees. Disgorgement is by hand with no dosage. There is a pleasing depth of citrus and apple fruitiness, along with hints of dried mango and preserved ginger; this wine is really all about soil and expression of place.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Jean-Baptiste Laherte set up the family estate in 1889, planting most of the vines in the village of Chavost, which was to become Chavot. The estate gradually grew over generations, and covers today over 11 hectares through the Champagne region. The sixth and seventh generations are now working together to create wines that are just like them - pure, sincere and authentic. They share their experience and combine their efforts to make the most of this beautiful heritage. Since 2005 Aurélien Laherte - the seventh generation - has been giving a new dimension to the estate, while following in the footsteps of his father Thierry and his uncle Christian, the Laherte brothers. Passionately, they promote the family’s values and continue to bring the best out of the terroir.

"Today 80% of the estate’s wines are fermented and matured in wooden receptacles (we own about 350 oak barrels, as well as 6 casks and 1 truncated-cone tank). This enables us to preserve and highlight the features of each locality and to let grow our wines, coming from 75 plots. We think that the best way to make the most of our terroir is to reveal its intimate personality through our wines. Massal selection, plot by plot vinification, immediate and delicate pressing, and minimal dosage are key elements of our wine-growing strategy."