# Prestige Premier Cru

- **Producer:** Champagne Larnaudie-Hirault
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.0%
- **Average price:** €49
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** green fruit, citrus, biscuit, brioche, pastry

## About this wine

Champagne Larnaudie-Hirault Prestige Premier Cru is a non-vintage sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France. Produced by the fifth-generation family estate Champagne Larnaudie-Hirault, the grapes are sourced from Premier Cru villages, including Trois-Puits, Montbré, and Taissy, all located in the Montagne de Reims. The estate cultivates six hectares of vineyards, focusing on a clear and expressive style that highlights the terroir. The wine is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes.

## Interesting facts

- Grapes sourced from Premier Cru villages in Montagne de Reims.
- A fifth-generation family-owned estate.
- One-fifth of their harvest is sold to Louis Roederer.
- Produced in Trois-Puits, a Premier Cru village.

## Food pairing

The wine's acidity and effervescence cut through richer elements like butter and fat, while its subtle fruit notes complement seafood and creamy textures. The clean finish makes it an excellent palate cleanser.

## Wine making process

Champagne Larnaudie-Hirault Prestige Premier Cru is produced using the traditional Méthode Champenoise. This involves primary fermentation, followed by a secondary fermentation in the bottle to create effervescence. The wine is aged on its lees, a process that contributes to its texture and complexity. As a non-vintage Champagne, it is a blend of wines from multiple harvests, a technique employed to ensure a consistent style and quality year after year. Grapes are hand-harvested to maintain fruit integrity.