"Pur Mesnil" Grand Cru, Blanc de Blancs 2016

750 ml

Overview

The Franck Bonville "Pur Mesnil" Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs 2016 is a pure, elegant expression of Chardonnay, hailing from the prestigious Grand Cru vineyards of Mesnil-sur-Oger in the Côte des Blancs. This Champagne exemplifies the purity and precision that the region is known for, showcasing the minerality and finesse that define the best Blanc de Blancs. With a focus on the vineyard’s exceptional terroir, this vintage presents a refined, balanced profile with outstanding depth and freshness.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The wine undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks, preserving the fresh, vibrant character of the Chardonnay while minimizing any influence of oak.
• Maceration: A brief maceration process is employed to capture the essence of the Chardonnay, extracting the delicate flavors and aromas from the grape skins while maintaining a pure and clean profile.
• Aging: The Champagne is aged for a minimum of 36 months on its lees, allowing for the development of complexity, creamy texture, and fine bubbles. This extended aging period imparts a refined mousse and contributes to the wine’s elegant style, showcasing the best qualities of the Mesnil-sur-Oger terroir.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine is pale gold with an exquisite, persistent mousse that forms delicate bubbles, indicative of its extended aging.
• Aroma: The nose reveals a complex array of aromas, with white flowers, lemon zest, green apple, and hints of white peach. Subtle notes of fresh brioche, almond, and a touch of minerality develop as the wine breathes, providing depth and elegance.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is crisp and refreshing, with a fine balance between bright acidity and creamy texture. The citrus and green apple flavors are enhanced by nuances of white stone fruit and a touch of almond. The minerality of the Mesnil terroir comes through clearly, providing a sophisticated backbone that adds to the wine’s freshness and depth.
• Finish: The finish is long and clean, with lingering notes of citrus, almond, and fresh brioche. The creamy texture remains, leaving a silky sensation on the palate, while the minerality provides a refreshing, mineral-driven conclusion.

Food Pairing

Franck Bonville "Pur Mesnil" Grand Cru, Blanc de Blancs 2016 is a versatile Champagne that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Ideal pairings include fresh seafood, such as oysters, lobster, or shrimp, as well as light, creamy dishes like scallops or crab with butter sauce. It also complements delicate cheeses such as goat cheese or Brie. For a more refined experience, serve it alongside sushi or foie gras, enhancing the elegant complexity of the Champagne.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Serve at 8–10°C (46–50°F) to preserve the Champagne’s crispness and aromatic complexity.
• Glassware: Use tulip-shaped Champagne glasses or flutes to allow the fine bubbles to linger and the wine’s delicate aromas to be fully appreciated.

Aging Potential

This Blanc de Blancs is an excellent choice for aging, with its high acidity and minerality providing the perfect structure for further development. Over time, the wine will evolve, with the fruit flavors softening and more developed nutty, toasty, and brioche notes emerging. Expect it to age gracefully for 5 to 8 years, or even longer, developing deeper layers of complexity and richness.