# Perle Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut (NV)

- **Producer:** Lilbert-Fils
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €79
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–8 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** green apple, pear, lemon, peach, pastry, brioche, biscuit, honey, almond

## About this wine

Lilbert-Fils Perle Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut is a Non-Vintage sparkling wine made from 100% Chardonnay. It originates from the Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs region of Champagne, France. The producer, Lilbert-Fils, is a family-run estate with a long history in viticulture and winemaking, currently managed by the fifth generation. A distinctive feature of the 'Perle' cuvée is its bottling at a reduced pressure, which results in a finer and creamier mousse. The grapes are sourced from old vines, some dating back to 1936, located in Grand Cru villages like Cramant, Chouilly, and Oiry.

## Interesting facts

- Bottled at a lower pressure for a softer mousse.
- Crafted from vines planted as early as 1936 for the 'Perle' cuvée.
- Represents one of Champagne's 'best kept secrets'.
- Tiny production, with only 27,000 bottles made annually.

## Food pairing

The wine's bright acidity and minerality cut through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its subtle complexity complements delicate flavors without overpowering them. The citrus notes in the wine can echo citrus elements in a dish.

## Wine making process

Lilbert-Fils Perle Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut is vinified in tanks. A key technique for this wine is its 'Perle' style, which involves bottling at a lower pressure (around 4 bars) compared to standard Champagne (6 bars), resulting in finer, creamier bubbles. The wine undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle to create its effervescence. It is aged on lees for a minimum of four years. A perpetual reserve, established in the 1980s and making up 50% of the blend, is utilized to ensure consistency and add complexity.