Minière F&R Cuvée Influence

Tatler Champagne Guide 2024-2025

Grape Makeup:

100% Pinot Noir

Sweetness Level:

Brut (actually Extra Brut)

Ageing on Lees:

41 months

Price:

$ (V)

Cellar:

Up to five years

Category:

Culinary

What

A grower estate in the remote village of Hermonville in the northern Montagne de Reims, now in its fourth generation; it was founded in 1919 by the current proprietors’ great-grandfather, who constructed his own wine press and started selling to merchants in Reims.

Where

Hermonville, northern Montagne de Reims; nearly 8ha mainly in Hermonville, with southeast facing slopes, average age 45 years; 4.5ha Meunier, 2ha Pinot Noir and 1.5ha Chardonnay, with some ungrafted Meunier.

Why

This sandy, isolated spot is known for its Meunier, old vines of which play a dominant role in this cuvée. This blend, the estate’s flagship, is made in oak barrels, roughly one-third of which are newer to add some tasty spice.

What Else

Though this cuvée used to undergo 7 years on the lees, in recent years the time has been shortened, which has no doubt helped with freshness.

Tasting Notes

The nose is decidedly mature, with marzipan, sage, roasted corn and Marseille soap and little primary fruit. There is more richness and complexity on the palate, but the vegetal quality lingers, though it’s offset by papaya and baked pear fruit. The oily texture, very voluminous, is just supported by the acidity. By the finish, there is a sense of sweetness despite a low (4g/l) dosage; not cloying, but soft and a little weighty.

Try It With

Vegetarian dishes with nutty/sweet elements, like gingko nuts or chestnuts.

When To Drink

Main course

Perfect For

Your friend who loves Daiquiris

TL/DR

Oily, rich and vegetal

Supplier

L'Imperatrice