# Comte Hugues de La Bourdonnaye Brut Nature (NV)

- **Producer:** Hugues de La Bourdonnaye
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €42
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–8 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, lemon, peach, pear, pastry, bread, brioche, biscuit, hazelnut, honey, almond

## About this wine

The Comte Hugues de La Bourdonnaye Brut Nature is a non-vintage Champagne from the Champagne AOC in France, produced by Hugues de La Bourdonnaye. This wine is distinguished by its 'Brut Nature' designation, indicating no added sugar after secondary fermentation, resulting in a dry and pure expression. Hugues de La Bourdonnaye, a genuine count, has dedicated over 30 years to creating authentic, nature-focused Champagnes with minimal intervention. The vineyards, with Chardonnay in Grand Cru Chouilly and Pinot Meunier in Monthelon, are rooted in limestone-rich soil. The wine undergoes an extended aging period on its lees, typically five to seven years, contributing to its unique character.

## Interesting facts

- The producer is a real count, not a marketing persona.
- This is a 'Brut Nature' Champagne, meaning zero dosage.
- The wine ages on lees for an extended 5-7 years.
- Minimal intervention winemaking, potentially no added sulfites.

## Food pairing

The wine's inherent acidity and minerality cut through richer textures and complement the natural sweetness of seafood. Its dryness makes it a versatile partner for savory dishes without overpowering them.

## Wine making process

The Comte Hugues de La Bourdonnaye Brut Nature is produced using traditional fermentation methods. A key technique is the extended aging on lees ('sur latte') for five to seven years, which develops complexity and texture. The wine is designated 'Brut Nature,' meaning no dosage or added sugar is applied after the secondary fermentation. The producer's philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention and respect for nature, with indications of using aged wines to avoid liqueur at disgorgement and potentially avoiding added sulfites.