Pierre Gimonnet Extra Brut Oenophile Champagne 2008

Made from Glera grapes sourced from various vineyards in the hilly part of the DOC region, northeast of Conegliano. The first fermentation takes place after a brief maceration, which enhances the typical citrus and tropical aromas of the Glera grapes. These intense, fruity aromas are preserved through the second fermentation, which takes place in large temperature controlled stainless steel containers.

Brut Réserve is produced from 40% Pinot Noir; 40% Pinot Meunier; 20% Chardonnay. Malolactic fermentation is allowed to happen naturally and sulfite levels are kept between 20 and 30 milligrams per liter. The wine spends 9 to 11 months in stainless steel tanks with 20% in oak barrels and more than 2 years on the lees in the bottle (sur lattes). Dosage is kept below 4 grams per liter and the wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Leclerc Briant Brut Réserve delivers the depth and fruitiness expected of a Champagne made from 80% black grapes with the underlying flavors of brioche and almond from nearly three years aging on its lees. 20% Chardonnay brings an underpinning of lemony acidity giving an impression of lightness and freshness. The finish is firmly dry with lingering notes of chervil and coriander.

Gastronomic Champagne is the goal of Leclerc Briant and all their wines are intended to accompany fine cuisine. The dryness and weight of Brut Réserve can accompany a sautéed filet of fish seasoned with coriander and lemon or slow cooked pork flavored with ginger and lemongrass.

“Firm and sleek, with crisp acidity structuring flavors of Gala apple, raisin bread, quince paste and almond cream. Well-knit, with a fine bead and fresh finish. Disgorged September 2011. Drink now through 2017. 65,000 cases made. -AN” (12/12)

1 Peter Liem – Champagne Guide

” Rating: *(*) Blended from roughly equal parts of the three varieties, with 30 percent reserve wine, this is still a little closed from its recent disgorgement in December of 2011. At the same time, it shows a great deal of energy and grip, combining a luscious depth of fruit with a racy, zesty structure. It picks up exotic, ginger-like notes on the palate, finishing with deep, soil-driven aromas and delicate length.”