Vieille Vigne du Levant 2012 Grand Cru Extra-Brut

The Vieille Vigne du Levant is a single-parcel cuvée from very old vines in Cramant, specifically from the Bourron du Levant site. Larmandier-Bernier farms 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 only disgorged one year before sale. The dosage is just 2 g/l. The 2012 vintage shows itself powerful and generous: plenty of volume, richness and a clear minerality, with great length.

It is as convincing as an aperitif as it is 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 in the cellar for at least two more years, where it will gain further depth.