Vieille Vigne du Levant 2012 Grand Cru Extra-Brut

Vieille Vigne du Levant is a single-parcel cuvée from very old vines in Cramant, specifically from the Bourron du Levant site. Larmandier-Bernier works close to nature, and the deep roots of the old vines give the wine complexity. After 11 months on the lees it ages a further 7 to 8 years on wooden racks and is disgorged only a year before sale. The dosage is just 2 g/l. The 2012 vintage is powerful and generous: plenty of volume, richness and clear minerality, with great length.

It works as an aperitif and equally well with poultry and morels. Do open the bottle early and give it time, as it unfolds slowly. Serve it at 10 to 12 °C in a large white wine glass. If you have patience, lay it down for at least two more years in the cellar, where it will gain further depth.