Every odyssey comes with its challenges, and the 2017 vintage was one of them. A warm spring and early summer gave way to severe frosts on 19 and 20 April, causing a significant drop in yields. July and August were rainy and generally cool, with harvest beginning on 1 September in the Côte des Blancs parcels. In the hands of Olivier and Ferdinand, this demanding year yielded a cuvée of singular elegance, a careful selection from parcels across Avize, Oger and Mesnil-sur-Oger Grand Cru, vinified in stainless steel with malolactic fermentation and aged 4.5 years on lees with a liège tirage. The year that tested the Odyssey, and proved it. Tasting notes: The elegance of the 2017 vintage, with generous notes brought by the long lees ageing. Avize, Oger and Mesnil each contribute their distinct character, tension from Avize, depth from Oger, the chalky precision of Mesnil. A champagne of delicacy and complexity in equal measure. Food pairing: A gastronomic champagne for the great table. Outstanding with fine shellfish, noble fish, white meats in cream sauce and aged goat's or sheep's cheeses. Details: Blending: 100% Chardonnay — Blanc de Blancs Vintage: 2017 Terroir: Avize, Oger & Mesnil-sur-Oger — Grand Cru Key lieux-dits: Les Avats, Les Maladries du Nord (Avize) / Les Noyerots, Les Rumigny, Les Chapelles, Les Tilleul, Les Hautes Mottes (Oger) / Les Zailleux (Mesnil) Vinification: Stainless steel vats, malolactic fermentation Ageing: 4.5 years on lees — liège tirage Dosage: 2 g/l — Extra-Brut Winemakers: Olivier Bonville & Ferdinand Ruelle Discover why we chose for Odyssée 319.
