WINEMAKER'S NOTES:
70% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay. All estate fruit from Ambonnay, one of the largest Grand Cru villages. The Coutier family was the first family to plant Chardonnay in this famed Pinot-centric village. Vineyards in Ambonnay face due south, producing a warmer microclimate for the grapes. Ambonnay soils have more clay and a bit less limestone than is typical throughout the region. The Coutiers practice "lutte raisonnée", a method of viticulture which encourages biodiversity and soil health. Coutier ploughs, uses no herbicides and grows grass between rows. 2013 base vintage, with some reserve from previous vintages. Stainless steel; 100% malolactic. Aged sur lie for 24-36 months; 6 grams dosage.
TASTING NOTES:
The NV Brut Tradition Grand Cru is fabulous. Rich, ample and creamy in the glass, the Brut Tradition captures all of the natural intensity of Ambonnay in its expansive personality. Pinot Noir drives this blend in both its flavor profile and weight. Red cherry, plum, cinnamon, cedar and dried flowers are some of the many notes that build over time. This release is based on 2013, with 40% reserve wines. Disgorged: November, 2019. Drink: 2020-2027.
- Vinous, 92 pts.
