# Terre de Vertus 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs (2016)

- **Producer:** Larmandier-Bernier
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** stone fruit, citrus, green fruit, bread, brioche, biscuit, pastry, hazelnut, honey, almond

## About this wine

Larmandier-Bernier Terre de Vertus 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs is a 100% Chardonnay Champagne from the Premier Cru village of Vertus in the Côte des Blancs. The estate, led by Pierre and Sophie Larmandier, follows a philosophy of biodynamic viticulture and minimal intervention in winemaking. This particular cuvée is 'Non-Dose' (Brut Nature), meaning no sugar is added after disgorgement, allowing the pure expression of the Vertus terroir to shine through. The 2016 vintage is noted for its quality and structure.

## Interesting facts

- Practices biodynamic farming for over 20 years.
- Uses indigenous yeasts for natural fermentation.
- Aged on lees for at least five years.
- Zero dosage (Brut Nature) emphasizes pure terroir.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through richness and complements the natural salinity of seafood. Its minerality echoes the briny notes of oysters and the subtle sweetness of shellfish, while its clean finish allows the delicate flavors of fish and lighter dishes to remain prominent.

## Wine making process

Larmandier-Bernier Terre de Vertus 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs is produced using 100% Chardonnay grapes from Vertus. The winemaking process emphasizes natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. A portion of the wine is fermented in old wood foudres or Burgundian barrels, with each vineyard plot vinified separately. The wine undergoes a second fermentation in bottle and ages on cork for at least six years, followed by a minimum of five years maturation on lees. It is bottled with zero dosage (Brut Nature).