# Fleur de Passion (2014)

- **Producer:** Diebolt-Vallois
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €167
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** dried fruit, ripe fruit, lemon, hawthorn, acacia, pastry, vanilla, brioche, almond extract, biscuit, honey, earthy sweet lotus paste, flinty freshness, hazelnut

## About this wine

Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion 2014 is a Blanc de Blancs Champagne made from 100% Chardonnay grapes from the Grand Cru village of Cramant in the Côte des Blancs, France. This wine is the top cuvée of the Diebolt-Vallois estate, which has a long family history in winemaking. The concept for Fleur de Passion was first conceived in 1953 and revived in 1992, with the wine produced only in exceptional vintages. The 2014 vintage was characterized by a contrast of mild early weather followed by a cooler summer, leading to grapes with good freshness and balance.

## Interesting facts

- Fleur de Passion is considered the 'jewel in the crown' of Diebolt-Vallois.
- The concept for Fleur de Passion dates back to 1953.
- Grapes come from old vines, some over 60 years old.
- The wine undergoes an extended aging on lees for approximately 8 years.

## Food pairing

The wine's high acidity and minerality cut through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its complexity complements the delicate flavors of fish and shellfish. The chalky notes in the wine echo the salinity of oysters.

## Wine making process

Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion 2014 is made exclusively from 100% Chardonnay grapes. The grapes are fermented in oak barrels, and malolactic fermentation is intentionally avoided to maintain freshness. The wine is then aged on its lees for approximately eight years, a process that develops its character and complexity. The grapes for this wine are sourced from old vines in Cramant, contributing to low yields and concentrated fruit.