A Blanc de Noirs of extraordinary provenance, 100% Pinot Noir from a single plot in Verzenay Grand Cru, planted in 1960/61 on belemnite chalk. The Espérances are the grapes of hope, vines that have been producing for over 60 years on some of the most mineral subsoil in the Montagne de Reims. No malolactic fermentation, no chaptalization, no fining, no filtration. Vinified in oak barrels with 9 months of lees ageing and bâtonnage. A champagne aged in the purest Champagne tradition, as the house describes it. Awarded Gold at Mundus Vini 2024, best show, and rated 91/100 by Julia Scavo. Tasting notes: Power, chalk and elegance. On the nose: ripe pear, fennel and sweet spices. On the palate: very structured, framed by a chalky minerality moving towards candied lemon, with a long bitterness that coats the palate in successive layers. Food pairing: A champagne with the structure to stand up to strong flavours. Outstanding with honey-glazed pork ribs, tagine, tian and Asian cuisine such as ramen. Details: Blending: 100% Pinot Noir — Blanc de Noirs Terroir: Single plot on belemnite chalk, Verzenay Grand Cru Vintage: 2019 Vine planting: 1960/61 (~65 years old) Fermentation: No malolactic fermentation / natural yeasts / no chaptalization Ageing: Oak barrels + 9 months on lees with bâtonnage / no fining or filtration Production: ~960 bottles per year Dosage: 7 g/l — Brut (natural) Distinctions: Mundus Vini Gold 2024 (best show) / Julia Scavo 91/100 / Concours de Lyon Gold 2024 / Berliner Wine Trophy Gold 2024 / Gilbert & Gaillard Gold 2023 Discover why we chose for Vignon Père & Fils.
