Sous Bois Brut

A classic of Champagne blend of almost one third of each varietal – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier – and some 30% composed of reserve wines all of which were fermented and aged in wood. The primary, alcoholic fermentation, which can include malolactic fermentation (a decision made for each varietal depending on the harvest), takes place in French oak barrels where the wine then sits on the lees for six months with regular paddling, to keep the yeasts suspended and create greater complexity. After bottling the wine sits on the lees for at least five years after which it is disgorged with a dosage of 7g/l.

The wine has a bright, golden color and a very fine effervescence. The rich and intense bouquet opens with notes of honey walnut and toasted barley, acacia flowers, orange and citron peel, golden delicious apple, brioche, apricot and toffee. The mouthfeel is full and pronounced yet at the same time very sophisticated, without any of the heaviness from the wood but with a creamy freshness. The wine’s tridimensional nature is evident in the persistence of the flavors on the palate, Mirabelle jam and almond shortbread that come together in a buttery blend that has a citrus verve, and a distinct, savory and spicy finish.

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