The philosophy of this estate is that the grapes are a gift of nature that must be respected. They see the vine as a living being and are constantly working towards applying new viticultural methods to create the ideal balance in the vineyards, utilizing biodynamic and organic approaches. They believe when the vineyards are free of chemicals, the vines can then show their true potential and the wine is much healthier for human consumption. I could not agree more. Most all of their vineyards are in the Premier Cru village of Vrigny, with the majority of their vines being planted to Pinot Meunier followed by Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The grapes are always hand harvested, then gently pressed into stainless steel tanks where the fermentation happens at low temperatures. After a brief aging, the wine is then transferred to bottle for secondary fermentation, then it will spend roughly 6 years ageing before release, which substantially exceeds the legal 1.5 year minimum bringing much more richness and creaminess to the palate. After disgorgement, there are 7 grams dosage (sugar) added before release. The wine for this particular bottling was 80% from the 2007 vintage with about 20% of reserve wine added from 2006, all from Premier Cru vineyards in the famous Montagne de Reims.

The Lelarge-Pugeot Premier Cru Brut Reserve is absolutely delicious and packed with flavor. The aromas that jump from the glass remind me of candied lemons, ripe yellow plums, crushed hazelnuts, fresh baked croissant and fresh white flowers. The palate is refreshing and creamy with flavors of lemon zest, yellow apple, yellow plums, pureed nuts and fresh brioche joined by a very fine chalky minerality which drives the long finish. This champagne will be best enjoyed out of an all purpose wine glass at about 45-50 degrees. If using a typical Champagne flute, please only pour the glass just over half full so the aromas can be fully experienced.