"Cuvée Signé François Vieilles Vignes" Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut ZERO 2012

750ml

Overview

The Guy Larmandier "Cuvée Signé François Vieilles Vignes" Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut ZERO 2012 is a prestigious Champagne that showcases the exceptional quality of old-vine Chardonnay from the Grand Cru vineyards of the Côte des Blancs. Made with a focus on purity and minimal intervention, this wine is crafted without added sugar (Brut Zero), allowing the natural expression of the vineyard's terroir to shine. The 2012 vintage benefits from a perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and structure, offering a complex yet refined profile that is characteristic of the best Blanc de Blancs Champagne.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The wine undergoes primary fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve its freshness and fruit purity.
• Maceration: There is no maceration process in the making of this Champagne, ensuring that the natural characteristics of the old-vine Chardonnay are fully expressed.
• Aging: This wine is aged on its lees for a minimum of 72 months, which imparts a remarkable depth and creaminess to the wine. The extended aging also contributes to the development of complex flavors and fine, persistent bubbles. With no dosage added, the Champagne is presented in its purest form.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The Champagne has a brilliant, pale golden hue with a persistent stream of fine bubbles, reflecting its quality and extended aging.
• Aroma: The nose is expressive and refined, with aromas of citrus fruits like lemon zest and green apple, complemented by delicate floral notes and a subtle minerality. The long lees aging imparts hints of toasted brioche, almonds, and a touch of honey, offering complexity and depth.
• Palate: On the palate, this Champagne is fresh and vibrant, with a precise and finely tuned acidity that supports its rich, creamy texture. The flavors of citrus, green apple, and white peach are balanced by nutty notes of hazelnut and a faint suggestion of toasted bread. The absence of dosage allows the natural fruit and minerality to dominate, creating a crisp and harmonious profile.
• Finish: The finish is long and clean, with lingering notes of citrus, almond, and a subtle toasty character. The minerality provides a refreshing and mouth-watering aftertaste that invites another sip.

Food Pairing

This Champagne pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, particularly those with delicate and refined flavors. Ideal pairings include oysters, lobster, or grilled fish such as sea bass or sole. It also complements lighter poultry dishes like roasted chicken or turkey, and works well with fresh goat cheese, salads, or sushi. For a more indulgent pairing, consider pairing with foie gras or a creamy risotto. Its clean finish makes it a great match for citrus-based desserts, such as lemon sorbet or meringue-based pastries.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Serve at 8–10°C (46–50°F) to highlight the wine’s freshness, aromatic complexity, and minerality.
• Glassware: Use a tulip-shaped glass or a flute to concentrate the aromas and preserve the fine, persistent bubbles of the Champagne.

Aging Potential

While this Champagne is already highly expressive and ready to enjoy, it has excellent aging potential. With its balance of fruit, acidity, and depth, it can continue to evolve for another 5–7 years. Over time, the wine may develop more intricate nutty and toasty notes, while maintaining its core freshness and minerality. The absence of dosage ensures the wine will maintain its purity and elegance as it ages.