Champagne Larmandier-Bernier 1er Cru Rosé de Saignée NV Base 19. Disg. Sep 2021

Champagne Larmandier-Bernier 1er Cru Rosé de Saignée is made by bleeding off juice from macerating Pinot Noir rather than by blending in red wine.

Larmandier-Bernier is based at Vertus in the Côte des Blancs, a village overwhelmingly planted to Chardonnay, which makes this Pinot Noir cuvée a rarity. It comes mostly from what are believed to be the oldest Pinot Noir vines in Vertus, around 45 years, in one of the last remaining Pinot vineyards there; the parcel is co-planted with roughly 10 per cent Pinot Gris, and both varieties go into the wine. The grapes macerate for two to three days before the juice is drawn off, which supplies colour, body and flavour. The saignée method is now rare in Champagne because it is demanding and needs genuinely ripe fruit, most rosé being made by adding a little red wine instead. Fermentation is natural, with part of the cuvée raised in a Nomblot concrete egg and part in stainless steel. Disgorged September 2021 at 2 grams per litre.

It drinks beautifully now and will improve for a year or two more; try it with smoked or grilled salmon, duck breast or charcuterie. Serve at around 8 degrees.

*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.