Laherte Freres "Ultradition" Champagne Extra Brut

60% Pinot Meunier, 30% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Noir grown around the estate in Chavot and from sourced vineyards in the Vallee de la Marne. Clay and chalky clay topsoils over limestone chalk bedrock.

This is normally a blend of 60% current vintage (currently 2015) and 40% reserve wines from the two previous harvests. Hand harvested and pressed in traditional vertical Champagne press. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in a combination of vats and burgundy barrels according to grape variety and vineyard provenance. Partial malolactic fermentation is the norm but varies with harvest. Aged 6 months prior to bottling and prise de mousse in the springtime following harvest. Dosage is 4.5g/L or Extra Brut.

Although a great value, this is serious wine with excellent mineral cut, showing a chalky texture coated with lovely citrus, apricot, floral and honeyed pear aromatics. Very persistent showing nice tension and breed.