Michel Arnould & Fils La Grande Cuvée Grand Cru NV

Grape Makeup:

70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay

Sweetness Level:

Brut

Ageing on Lees:

34 months

Price:

$$

Cellar:

Up to 5 years

Category:

Culinary

What

Pinot noir specialist grower based in Verzenay known for potent, assertively flavoured wines, now onto its fifth generation.

Where

Verzenay, Montagne de Reims; 12 hectares.

Why

Verzenay is the Grand Cru that is furthest to the north and is also oriented north, giving its wines a darkness and structure not found further south in the Montagne de Reims. This cuvée also incorporates chardonnay from Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs, a leavening offset to the earthy, animalistic tones of the Verzenay pinot.

What Else

Although it is technically not a vintage champagne, the base wines all come from a single harvest.

Tasting Notes

Clearly a grower style, the nose starts a little earthy and microbiological, with baijiu pit and wilted flower notes gradually giving way to a more refined, sharp-edged toastiness with white peach and lemon curd. Palpably sweet on the entry, this nonetheless feels nicely balanced by its acidity, which is singing. Beautiful fresh citrus and white peach fruit on the mid-palate harmonise nicely with the gentle toastiness found there. The sweetness becomes somewhat noticeable on the back but is not offensive, still accompanied by tons of fresh fruit.

Try It With

Earthy, vegetable driven-dishes that normally clash with wine, like fennel or artichoke.

When To Drink

Entrées or main course.

Perfect For

The friend who has been to all the best tofu restaurants in Tokyo.

TL/DR

Pleasantly funky nose; classic, fruit-rich palate.

Supplier

Golden Gate Wines