2015 Larmandier-Bernier Terre de Vertus 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs Magnum 1.5L, Champagne

The 2015 Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Terre de Vertus continues to show well, offering up generous aromas of peach, orange oil, ripe melon, white cherries, buttery pastry, orange oil and dried white flowers. Full-bodied, layered and fleshy, with a vinous, muscular profile and a long, gently mordant finish, it's one of the more powerful wines in the range.

93 points William Kelley robertparker.com

Disgorged May 23

Larmandier Bernier Terre de Vertus Premier Cru Blanc de Blancs is a stunning expression of single village Champagne, crafted entirely from Chardonnay grown in the chalky soils of Vertus. Pierre and Sophie Larmandier are pioneers of biodynamic viticulture in Champagne and their wines are known for their clarity, depth and absolute respect for terroir.

This cuvée is made from a single vintage and comes from a specific lieu-dit on the mid-slope of Vertus, a site that brings both tension and generosity to the fruit. Fermentation is natural, with indigenous yeasts, and takes place in large oak barrels. The wine is aged on its lees for several years without dosage, allowing it to showcase the full character of the vineyard.

On the nose, it’s pure and detailed with notes of lemon zest, green apple, chalk dust and white flowers. The palate is dry and finely textured with crisp citrus, almond, crushed stone and a long, saline finish. The mousse is elegant and creamy, never overwhelming the precision and vibrancy at the core.

It’s an exceptional Blanc de Blancs for lovers of mineral driven Champagne. Perfect with oysters, sea urchin, sashimi or simply sipped slowly with nothing but good conversation.