Lallier R.015 Brut, Champagne

Navigating a trajectory of rising quality in the wake of mushrooming growth is a monumental undertaking for any establishment, and the rise and rise of the young house of Lallier over the past 15 years stands as an exemplar of just what can be achieved. Established only in 1996, the family’s history in Aÿ spans five generations, having overseen Deutz from 1906 until Louis Roederer took ownership in 1996.

Chef de cave since 2000, fourth-generation Champagne winemaker Francis Tribaut purchased Lallier when René-James Lallier retired in 2004. At the time, production totalled only 50,000 bottles. In just one decade, it mushroomed to a cool 400,000 bottles, where it is capped today. Its clean, well-balanced and fruit-focused champagnes have stepped up another level again this year.

Tyson Stelzer tysonstelzer.com
 
39% chardonnay and 61% pinot noir from Avize, Cramant, Oger, Aÿ, Verzenay, Bouzy, Ambonnay.
Blending: 80% with wine from the year 2015 20% of reserve wines (2012, 2009, 2008) Dosage - 7g/L
 

Founded in Aÿ in 1906, Champagne Lallier has built its reputation on wines that balance richness with freshness and elegance. The house's R series celebrates the character of individual harvests, with R.015 centred on the excellent 2015 vintage. Combining the generosity of a warm growing season with the finesse of carefully selected vineyards, this is a beautifully approachable Champagne with plenty of character.

A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, R.015 draws on fruit from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards. The ripe fruit of 2015 contributes richness and texture, while reserve wines add complexity and balance. Extended ageing on lees develops attractive toasted notes without overwhelming the wine's freshness.

Bright golden straw with a lively, persistent bead. Ripe pear, yellow apple and lemon zest mingle with toasted brioche, almond and a little white blossom. The palate is supple and beautifully balanced, with creamy bubbles, juicy orchard fruit and refreshing citrus acidity. Gentle pastry notes and a subtle mineral character carry through a clean, satisfying finish.

Delicious with grilled prawns, scallops with lemon butter or a leek and Gruyère tart. It would also be lovely alongside mushroom risotto or a simple seafood platter.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2029. Already drinking beautifully, with a few more years available for additional toasted and savoury complexity.