# Cuvée Intense Brut (NV)

- **Producer:** AR Lenoble
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €55
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, lemon, peach, pear, pastry, brioche, biscuit, vanilla, hazelnut, honey, almond

## About this wine

AR Lenoble Cuvée Intense Brut is a Non-Vintage Champagne from the Champagne AOC in France. Produced by the family-owned AR Lenoble house, it is a blend typically featuring Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The wine's distinctiveness stems from its extended aging process and the use of reserve wines aged in magnum bottles, a testament to the producer's philosophy of respecting time and developing personality-driven wines. The grapes are sourced from specific vineyard sites, including Grand Cru Chardonnay in Chouilly and Premier Cru Pinot Noir from Bisseuil, reflecting the esteemed terroir of the Champagne region. AR Lenoble is recognized for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and biodiversity.

## Interesting facts

- AR Lenoble was one of the first Champagne houses to achieve the 'Haute Valeur Environnementale' (HVE) certification for sustainable development.
- Reserve wines are aged in magnum bottles for extended periods before blending, a costly but character-building practice.
- The producer emphasizes biodiversity and sustainable farming, with significantly reduced yields compared to the Champagne average.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its complexity complements delicate flavors. The minerality can echo the salinity of oysters, and the subtle toasty notes can harmonize with pâté or aged cheeses.

## Wine making process

The AR Lenoble Cuvée Intense Brut is crafted using a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Vinification involves partial fermentation in oak barrels and steel tanks. A key technique is the use of a perpetual reserve system, where reserve wines are aged in magnum bottles for extended periods before blending. The wine undergoes significant aging on its lees, exceeding regulatory minimums. AR Lenoble employs sustainable viticulture practices, focusing on biodiversity and minimizing chemical inputs, and holds the 'Haute Valeur Environnementale' (HVE) certification.