Larmandier-Bernier 2017 Terre de Vertus 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature

A great no-dosage Champagne, given an extra dimension from Larmandier's great Biodynamic work in the vineyard. Remarkably elegant and mineral on the palate, this is a wine-lover's Champagne that's far more satisfying than those more expensive brand-name tete-de-cuvees.

Recent notes on the 2017 vintage: 2017 Vertus it is from one lieu-dit just outside of Vertus, on similar soil to Longitude, with a spicy beginning, then chalk and tension. No dosage. This was Arthur's first vintage at the estate, so he has decided he may been partly responsible for how delicious it is! There is a lovely, subtle nuttiness, with some spice and candied ginger notes. The first "Vertus" bottling was in 1995. 2017 was warm and rich, one of the richest vintages of the wine since '95. For those used to the intense minerality of the wine, the 2017 vintage provides a slightly "friendlier," and richer profile, even with the zero dosage.