La Vigne d'Antan
Cuvee "La Vigne d'Antan" (The Vines of Yesteryear): Dating from the Lutetian era 45 million years ago, this hillside terroir is the only remaining place where the Chardonnay can be grown ungrafted on its own roots. This cuvee reveals the true nature of the chardonnay grape, with aromas unknown elsewhere since the 19th century. Signed Benoît Tarlant this exclusive champagne invites you to a timeless tasting of a wine of rare purity.
Harvest: 29th September 2000
Grapes: 100% Chardonnay – Ungrafted
(as they were in
pre-phylloxera days)
Terroir: "Les Sables" in Oeuilly (Marne valley). 44-yrs old vines.
Vinification: Vinification in 4-wine oak barrels. No malolactic fermentation. Barrel fermentation with the lees regularly stirred back into the wine. Remains in barrels until May.
Bottling: 3rd May 2001
Disgorging: 30th October 2007 - Manual
Dosage: 4,5 g/L - Extra Brut
To the eye, golden with greenish hints, lively crystalline mousse
Nose: Intense, with well integrated scents of white blossoms (acacia and linden) and “Reine de reinette” apples. The real scent of the Chardonnay.
Mouth: Open and very pure. The palate shows itself mineral and silky, with suggestions of white fruit and lacy delicate suggestions of hazelnuts and almonds. An exceptional cuvee which is as elegant as it is aromatic. Its persistent freshness is unique.
Food & wine: Authentic and singular, this champagne of character is best appreciated when first tasted on its own. A great aromatic wine, which will accompany elegantly cooked shellfish to perfection.
References:
Gault Millau Guide
: "90 pts"
Revue du Vin de France Guide
: "16/20"
