Champagne Larmandier-Bernier - Vieille Vigne du Levant Grand Cru Extra Brut 2014

Bettane & Desseauve

About the domain :

Pierre and Sophie Larmandier, accompanied by their son Arthur, have been cultivating 16 hectares biodynamically for over twenty years. Few wineries in any region can boast such consistency at this high level. The range is remarkably well maintained and reasonably priced. Among the estate's legendary cuvées, vieille vigne du levant is unquestionably a benchmark for the Côte des Blancs. The style boasts creamy textures in which balance is a central value. In this discreet elegance, we often find the finest the Côte des Blancs has to offer. A sought-after address.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

Disgorged in March 2023, the new Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant 2014 unfolds in the glass with aromas of crunchy stone fruit, freshly baked bread, white flowers, buttery pastry and light honey. Full-bodied, plush and chiseled, with a sweet core of fruit, acidic acidity and a penetrating, electric finish, this is a terrific success.

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the domain :

Although his family hails from Cramant, Pierre Larmandier has settled in Vertus, where he vinifies parcels spread across the Côte des Blancs grands crus, in Cramant (sumptuous cuvée Vieilles Vignes du Levant), Chouilly, Oger and Avize. The result is a magnificent Les Chemins d'Avize since 2009. Stainless steel, and to a lesser extent barrels, have given way to oak foudres in which vinification takes place without yeasting. The range emphasizes sustained work in the vineyard and the use of biodynamic treatments. We salute the frankness, intensity of taste and powerful flavors of this range, which may or may not be dosed.

Jancis Robinson

About the wine:

This is an almost indescribable wine. It's rich, smoky, broad and powerful, but it's none of those things. There are fruits, spices and stones, but you couldn't tell them apart if you tried. It's utterly complete. Without beginning, without end. It has a heartbeat, a drum, a rhythm that feels like a pulse. It's a wine that makes you search for words, then give up, to simply breathe it in.