Champagne Larmandier-Bernier 1er Cru Rosé de Saignée 1.5L MAGNUM NV Base 18. Disg. Apr 2021

Champagne Larmandier-Bernier 1er Cru Rosé de Saignée in magnum is drawn from what are thought to be the oldest Pinot Noir vines in Vertus.

Larmandier-Bernier farms biodynamically in Vertus, at the southern end of the Côte des Blancs, and this saignée rosé is the outlier in a range built on Chardonnay. The source is a single vineyard of roughly 45-year-old vines, one of the last in the village planted solely to Pinot, and in fact co-planted with about ten per cent Pinot Gris, which also goes into the blend. The fruit macerated on skins before the juice was drawn off, giving the wine its colour, body and much of its flavour. Saignée is now rare in Champagne because it demands very ripe fruit and careful handling, so most rosé here is made by blending in a little red wine instead. Fermentation was natural, part in a Nomblot concrete egg and part in stainless steel, with amphorae also being trialled, and the dosage is a discreet three grams per litre.

Drinking well now and better again with a year or two in the cellar. Serve at 8°C with smoked or grilled salmon, duck or roast quail.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.