Champagne Leclerc Briant - Millésime Extra Brut 2019

This Epernay-based brand, a pioneer of organic viticulture in Champagne and founded by the Leclerc family in 1872, experienced a renaissance under the leadership of Pascal Leclerc Briant in the 1990s and 2000s. The wine merchant was acquired in 2012 by an American couple, Mark Nunnelly and Denise Dupré, who are passionate about champagne and the French art of living. The house has now reached a brilliant maturity, complemented by the spectacular revival of the Hôtel Royal Champagne. All the champagnes, produced using biodynamic viticulture, possess great character and an intense, profound expression. Hervé Jestin, the cellar master, crafts wines that inspire our admiration.

Acquired in 2012 by a passionate American couple, this small estate has risen from the ashes thanks to wines with remarkable character. The vineyards are cultivated using biodynamic methods, and grapes are sourced from organic or biodynamic winemakers. The majority of the grapes come from exceptional terroirs (Mailly, Le Mesnil, Cumières...). Hervé Jestin has been working with the house for several years, bringing his well-known talent to the project. The “Abyss” cuvées—champagnes submerged at the bottom of the sea for 12 months off the coast of Ouessant Island—possess a distinct identity, as do the single-vineyard champagnes Château d’Avize and Les Mont Ferrés. Partial aging in oak, low dosage, and a balance of tension and vinosity are the hallmarks of this fine house.

A sweet tart with butter cookies, apples, and pears. Full-bodied and intense, yet not too heavy, and always refined. Long and flavorful. Complex and satisfying. Exciting. 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. Ready to drink now.

The 2019 Millésime Extra Brut Champagne has a brilliant straw-yellow color and offers intense, well-defined notes of fresh pear, crushed stone, delicate mineral notes, Meyer lemon, and fresh lemongrass. With a light, lively effervescence, this wine is concentrated and flavorful, yet light on the palate. Elegant, fruity, and with a long finish, it is a very pleasant wine. It has a clean finish with notes of lemon balm and great purity, while remaining compact and refined. Best enjoyed within the next 15 years or more. Dosage of 1.5 grams per liter; it has just been disgorged.