NV R. Pouillon & Fils Grande Vallee Extra Brut, Champagne, France (750ml)

WINEMAKER'S NOTES: 

Grand Vallée is an expression of the Vallée de la Marne through the Pouillon lens. It is a blend of all of Pouillon’s holdings relative to what those vineyars are comprised of - roughly 65% pinot noir, 20% pinot meunier, and 15% chardonnay. This cuvée has evolved over time and improved in quality to better reflect the evolution of the domaine at large. Formerly known as "Réserve Brut", the "Grande Vallée" cuvée is fermented with native yeasts, half in neutral barrique and half fermented in enameled tank. Elevage continues a minimum of 6-8 months before the wine is blended with the previous vintage to be refermented in bottle utilizing the Method Fabrice Pouillon.

TASTING NOTES: 

The NV Extra Brut Grande Vallée is a blend of 65% Pinot Noir, 20% Pinot Meuneir and 15% Chardonnay harvested in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Mutigny, Epernay, Avenay-Val-d'Or and Festigny, 45% of the blend is from the 2019 vintage, 30% from 2018, both aged in oak, and 25% reserve wines kept in foudre. Golden color leads onto an earthy, expansive nose that has an overtone of ripe red bell pepper and juicy plum, with an oxidative edge from wood ageing. The palate is lighter than either color or nose suggest, flowing with inherent juiciness on a body that has traction and Pinot structure, but also bright freshness. Individual and surprisingly light.

- Vinous, 91 pts.