Laherte Frères Les Grandes Crayères

Vintage: 2016

Origin: Champagne, France

Grapes: Chardonnay 

Alcohol: 12.5%

Les Grandes Crayères showcases the particular and complex terroir of Côteaux Sud d'Épernay, where a few select plots have vines clinging to hillsides with soft soils and Campanian chalk present at just 20cm depth. Aurélien decided in 2014 to vinify these parcels separately to create a single vineyard cuvée that presents Chardonnay with finesse and relief. This is 100% Chardonnay from west-facing slopes, blending massal selection with both new and old rootstocks, all farmed with respect for nature and ecological methods. Hand-picked at full ripeness and traditionally pressed, the wine undergoes alcoholic fermentation in barrels without malolactic, then ages on fine lees before hand disgorgement with 3-4g/l dosage. The result is stunning – bright and finely sculpted with dazzling energy, tension, and power. It's the most impressive wine in the range, showing drive and precision alongside its mid-weight personality. A sexy, mineral-laden Champagne that's complex, traditional, and utterly unique in its purity.