CHAMPAGNE 1er CRU
Appellation d'origine contrôlée
GRAPE VARIETY
Pinot Noir 80%, Chardonnay 20%
TASTING NOTES
All grapes originate from a single parcel located in the 1er Cru Vertus, a single vineyard called Les Terrates. The grapes are harvested gently and completely destemmed. The maceration process for the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay is unique: the two varieties are brought together in a single tank and arranged in overlapping layers where they are macerated for approximately 60 hours at a temperature of 12°C. Following pressing, the must is racked into a settling tank where it is kept at a low temperature (around 10°C) for 24 hours. Alcoholic fermentation with indigenous yeasts takes place in large oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation, which is characteristic of the Maison, does not take place. The wine is left to mature on the lees for eight months in oak barrels, after which it is bottled and aged in the cellar for a further five years before release. The dosage with grape juice concentrate (MCR) is adapted to the evolution of the wine. The disgorgement date and dosage are printed on the back of the label, in line with Collard-Picard's usual practice with all its champagnes. Only grapes from one vintage are used, even if the vintage is not indicated on the label. This is a brilliant light red, well executed for the Saignée Rosé style, characterised by a delicate and persistent perlage. The nose has an intense bouquet evoking red Burgundy, with notes of raspberry, plum, pain d'épices and subtle hints of oak. The palate is full-bodied, with dense red fruit flavours and impressively integrated grape and oak tannins. This sophisticated and vinous rosé Champagne is not an aperitif wine, with a long, lingering finish and subtle creaminess.