It was clear since the summer that 2015 was going to be an exceptional vintage, in the sense of being different from the classic vintages. A relatively cool spring indicated that the grapes would be harvested on the usual dates, in the third week of September, which was indeed the case. However, there was no forewarning of an extremely dry summer, the driest in decades, accompanied by exceptionally sunny weather. The vineyard was therefore in the relatively rare position, in the Champagne region, of suffering strong water stress until early September, when some welcome rainfall arrived to boost the vines’ metabolisms and ensure satisfactory ripening. In our sectors of Mareuil-sur-Ay, Ay and Avenay-Val-d'Or, the harvest then took place in totally dry conditions, with the rains at the end of September only affecting us in the evening of the final day. In the majority of our south-facing vineyards, yields were moderate to low, providing optimal concentration. Grape maturity was far higher than average, without reaching extremes: between 11 and 12% potential alcohol in the Clos des Goisses, and 10.5 to 11% elsewhere.

Vinification: Vinified using traditional methods to avoid premature oxidation. Partial malolactic fermentation for the wines in vats and vinification without malolactic fermentation for the wines in wooden barrels. Extra brut dosage (4.25 g/litre) to maintain a balance between freshness and vinosity without masking the wine’s character and purity.

Nose: Luscious and fruit-driven with notes of pastry with fresh pear, almond and cinnamon.

Taste: The palate is creamy and round with notes of praline, caramel and apricot jam. The finish is fresh with spicy hints of cinnamon and clove. A sunny wine, very representative of the year.

Pairs with; Chicken tagine with apricots and almonds. Enhances terrines and foie gras. Serve chilled at 8 to 9°C as an aperitif or 10 to 12°C to accompany a meal.,

Producer: Philipponnat

Vintage: 2016

Name: Cuvee Blanc de Noirs

Appellation: Champagne

Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir

Colour: White

Region: Champagne

Volume (mL): 750

Carton Quantity: 6 Bottles

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