# Le Mesnil Grand Cru Brut Blanc de Blancs (NV)

- **Producer:** Champagne Le Mesnil
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €35
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** lemon, grape, acacia, toasty, butter, viennoiserie, hazelnut, almond

## About this wine

Le Mesnil Grand Cru Brut Blanc de Blancs is a non-vintage Champagne produced by Champagne Le Mesnil, a cooperative of growers from the Grand Cru village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger in the Côte des Blancs. The wine is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes, sourced from vineyards characterized by chalky soils that contribute to the grapes' freshness and minerality. The cooperative holds a unique distinction, being authorized to use the village name as its commercial brand, highlighting its deep roots and commitment to this specific terroir.

## Interesting facts

- The cooperative is one of only two in Champagne allowed to use its village name as a brand.
- Chalky soils encourage vines to grow deep roots, enhancing grape freshness.
- This wine is noted for its development and depth, not just immediate sprightliness.

## Food pairing

The wine's crisp acidity and minerality cut through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while its subtle toasty notes complement dishes with similar baked or nutty elements. Citrus elements in the wine can echo citrus in the food, creating a harmonious bridge.

## Wine making process

Le Mesnil Grand Cru Brut Blanc de Blancs is vinified using 100% Chardonnay grapes. Alcoholic fermentation occurs in stainless-steel tanks for approximately 14 days, with temperatures reaching up to 18°C, a process designed to maintain freshness. Malolactic conversion is applied to 85% of the juice. The wine is aged on fine lees for nine months before bottling. Post-bottling, it undergoes a secondary fermentation followed by five years of aging in the bottle. The minimum aging requirement for this wine is three years.