Lanson Le Vintage 2009

What

One of the first (founded in 1760) and now among the biggest maisons, known for their sharp, racy style

Where

Reims; 57ha of estate vineyards, a quarter of which are cultivated organically.

Why

Lanson is known for blocking malolactic fermentation, which helps retain sharp, tangy malic acid instead of creamier lactic acid. This has influenced the shape of their wines, which are pointed and assertive, though this is amplified and rounded by 10 years on lees (making it exceptional value).

What else

Try their Blanc de Blancs for an even more pronounced example of Lanson style. Meanwhile, the Lanson Vintage Collection provides an extraordinary opportunity to taste late-disgorged, mature vintages (some over a century old).

Tasting Notes

An intense chardonnay nose: lemon curd, gun flint and toasty brioche. It sits extremely high on the palate with citrus oil and pith rather than juicy flesh. A glass-sharp, compact shape with powdery phenolics stays lean and tight with a lemongrass note on the finish.

Try It With 

Spicy fried poultry dishes.

When To Drink

Apéritif

Perfect For

Your new neighbour.

TL/DR

Toasty, high-toned and sharp.

Supplier

Enoteca