Champagne 1er Cru, Guy Larmandier 'Vertus'

The 1er Cru vineyard of Vertus is famous for Pinot Noir in addition to the Chardonnay you'd expect here along the Cote de Blancs. Guy Larmandier blends 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir here from two vintages and ages the wine for 36 months before disgorgement. The result is a sleek beauty of a wine that opens with rich aromas of toast, nuts, mineral and lemon. In the mouth plenty of Chardonnay cut and drive elevated with hints of earthy red fruit and richness from the Pinot Noir. Clean, toasty, precise, and extremely long with a finish that won't quit.

Green-tinged straw. Spicy citrus fruit aromas are underscored by a zesty mineral nuance and show very good precision and clarity. Lime and honeysuckle flavors are lifted by a chalky element and gain weight with air. Shows very good intensity on the penetrating finish, a suave blend of power and vivacity.