What
a novel venture between ex-ballerina Aurore Casanova and Jean Baptiste Robinet, a prosthetist for amputees.
Where
Mardeuil, Vallée de la Marne but most of their vines are in the Montagne de Reims. Their top wines come from Puisieulx, deemed “the most obscure Grand Cru” by champagne expert Peter Liem.
Why
a showy but graceful take on Blanc de Noirs, achieved not through oenological pyrotechnics but through straightforward, fairly hands-off viticulture and winemaking. Grapes were sourced from family-owned plots planted by Aurore’s mother in the late ‘60s. Only 1,300 bottles and 77 magnums were produced.
What else
The slightly racy label was designed by artist Myriam Achour.
Tasting Notes
An unexpectedly fruity nose with lime seltzer and green apple with a lanolin edge. The intensity builds on the palate, layering green fruit with red cherries and some smoky autolysis on the finish. Refreshing acid and a dusting of powdery texture leave an impression of litheness and delicacy. The finish is very clean.
Try It With
Spicy fried poultry dishes.
When To Drink
Apéritif.
Perfect For
Your friend who lives for l'apéro.
TL/DR
Lively, fruit-forward + refreshing.
Supplier
L'Imperatrice