Suenen C+C Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra-Brut [Base 2020]

Aurelien Suenen's wines display his desire to release Champagnes that articulate a sense of place. He notes that in Cramant there is different terroir expression in the wines from the high altitude vineyards and the lower lying vineyards, with the vines planted in the latter proving to be more distinctly chalky. C+C, a blend of wines from Chouilly and Cramant, tends to be richer and more briny than the Oiry bottling. Pale yellow robe with fine bead and soft mousse. The nose offers pretty aromas of golden apple skin, orange oil (that’s the Cramant talking) and apple blossom. The palate is concentrated with flavors of stone fruit, preserved lemon, and toast. In the mouth this is broad and expansive, but not lacking for energy or flair on the incisively chalky finish. The C+C (Base 2020) was fermented and aged for 9 months on the lees in a combination of stainless steel, 228L and 500L barrels, then aged in cellar for 24-36 months Disgorgement in July of 2023 and bottled with 4 g/l dosage.