A distinctive, terroir-driven Blanc de Noirs from one of Champagne’s most respected family producers, this limited 2020 release showcases Pinot Meunier from the Premier Cru village of Ludes on the northern side of the Montagne de Reims.
The wine is produced entirely from old-vine Meunier grown in the lieux-dits Les Hautes-Pertes and Les Vigneulles-de-Devant, two neighboring parcels pl...Show More >
A distinctive, terroir-driven Blanc de Noirs from one of Champagne’s most respected family producers, this limited 2020 release showcases Pinot Meunier from the Premier Cru village of Ludes on the northern side of the Montagne de Reims.
The wine is produced entirely from old-vine Meunier grown in the lieux-dits Les Hautes-Pertes and Les Vigneulles-de-Devant, two neighboring parcels planted in 1970. Situated near the Grand Cru village of Mailly-Champagne, these vineyards are distinguished by highly calcareous soils, very little clay and a deep chalk subsoil. The result is an unusually precise and mineral expression of Meunier in which the character of the chalky terroir takes precedence over the grape’s naturally generous fruit.
The 2020 Ludes Premier Cru was vinified and aged in oak barrels before being bottled under natural cork for the second fermentation. It then matured for approximately four and a half years on the lees before disgorgement. A very low dosage of 2 grams per liter preserves the wine’s purity, tension and distinctly saline finish.
The bouquet opens with ripe white peach, apricot and nectarine, joined by red apple, citrus peel, brioche and subtle floral accents. On the palate, it is vinous yet sharply defined, with fine bubbles, lively acidity and a pronounced chalky salinity. Its ripe orchard-fruit core is held firmly in place by mineral tension, finishing long, dry and energetic with an elegant, pleasantly bitter edge.
This is a powerful yet beautifully controlled expression of Meunier—more linear, saline and structured than the grape is often expected to be. It can be enjoyed now for its vibrancy and precision or cellared as its fruit and lees-derived complexity continue to develop.
Food Pairing
An exceptional gastronomic Champagne for oysters, sushi, sashimi, smoked trout, grilled white fish, scallops, shellfish, roast poultry and creamy cheeses. Its combination of ripe fruit, mineral freshness and Extra Brut dryness also makes it a refined aperitif.
Critical Acclaim
94 Points — James Suckling
Wine Details
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Producer: Champagne Pierre Paillard
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Country: France
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Region: Champagne
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Village: Ludes, Montagne de Reims
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Classification: Premier Cru
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Vintage: 2020
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Wine Type: Blanc de Noirs, Extra Brut
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Grape Variety: 100% Pinot Meunier
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Vineyard Sources: Les Hautes-Pertes and Les Vigneulles-de-Devant
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Vine Age: Planted in 1970
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Soil: Highly calcareous soil over deep chalk, with minimal clay
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Vinification: Fermented and aged in oak barrels
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Secondary Fermentation: In bottle under natural cork
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Lees Aging: Approximately 4.5 years
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Dosage: 2 grams per liter
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Bottle Size: 750ml
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