2014 Champagne Roger Coulon, Franc de Pied, Blanc de Noirs, Extra Brut

Two different plots were used for this vintage cuvée: one Pinot Noir from Vrigny, and one Pinot Meunier from Gueux, called “Les Linguets”. “Les Linguets” is a very sandy soil plot, which has the unusual feature of mainly ungrafted roots, all planted in 1959. The blend is fermented in oak, and sees 8 years; malolactic fermentation was blocked. It has 2g dosage and is very lifted and fresh. On the nose, there’s a lovely combination of bay leaf, honey, hay and rosemary; the palate has plenty of salinity and an almost menthol aspect, combined with ripe citrus and quince. There’s lovely balance, great complexity and depth, and a long waxy finish. Just 7000 bottles were produced.

Berry Bros. & Rudd