Larmandier-Bernier 'Terre de Vertus' 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs Non Dose (2006)

Photo by Xiao P  

100% Chardonnay; mono-cru Vertus (1er Cru)

Biodynamic viticulture

First fermentation in a combination of stainless steel vats and oak foudres, using indigenous yeasts

Non Dose (Brut Nature)

*Although not labeled so, each release comes from a single vintage. In this case, 2006, as can be seen from the cork. 

Tasted in July, 2012

Served upon uncorking.

Racy, expressive aromas jump to the nose: hints of white flowers, white fruits and grapefruit peel are instantly overwhelmed by white pepper, chalk dust, and of course some smelly bio notes. Exciting!

The taste is, to say the least, impressive: bone-dry; bold, rocking expression of chalky minerality, with substantial weight, intensity, structure and finesse all on its own! The acidity is light and the fruitness is pale (just hints of pear skin and grapefruit peel), thus the minerality dominates the show, making it almost a distillation of pure chalk. Honest, dynamic and resonant, this is impressive and demanding -- NOT for timid drinkers.

A cracking showcase of terroir originality, demonstrating the difference made by conscentious viticulture effort.