Raphael et Vincent Bereche CRUS SELECTIONNES

COTE Vertus Millesime 2008 Extra Brut Champagne (750ml)

V R T stands for Vertus.  

Tasted in Dec, 2015

Thanks to Xiao P for the nice photos!
 

The aroma clearly indicates first fermentation by indigenous yeasts.

Full bodied, with windfall ripeness of apple and apricot, spiced by aniseed, curry and mineral salinity. Pronounced vinosity.

While I do appreciate their effort in harvesting ripe grapes and dosing the wine with indigenous yeast character, I am actually even more frustrated by their oxidative wine-making that kills freshness and ageing capacity in such a young, potentially great vintage! I can tell for sure this will oxidize soon! What a shame! 

You will get to see what I mean when tasting this side by side with a great Grand Marque young Blanc de Blancs, say Pol Roger Blanc de Blancs, also from vintage 2008!