Lot presentation

Extra-Brut Les 7 Laherte Frères

The wine

This champagne comes from the Chavot terroir, composed of clay-limestone soil, containing shale, flint and a chalky subsoil. This cuvée is a blend of Chardonnay, Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Petit Meslier, pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Arbanne. The grapes are picked by hand once at optimal maturity. Fermentation takes place in Burgundy barriques (aged at least 7 years), followed by élevage on fine lees for six months, with regular stirring. There is no malolactic fermentation. The dosage is less than 4g/l. On the nose, it offers intense aromas of exotic fruit, with brioche and mineral notes, while the palate offers a rich, deep, flavoursome substance (citrus, almond, apple and pear aromas). The long, chalky finish adds a final stylish note to tasting. It should be served at around 9°C and will pair well with grilled lobster or a salmon fillet with vegetables.

About the Producer Laherte Frères

This illustrious champagne house, founded in 1889, is now under the care of its fifth and sixth generations. Thierry and his son Aurélien manage the property masterfully, with vineyards extending across over 11 hectares on the Côte de Blanc, the slopes of Sud d'Epernay and the Marne valley. A certain philosophy is applied to the vineyard work with a preference for natural practises. Laherte Frères is one of those rare houses still growing some of the Champagne region's forgotten grape varieties, namely Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Petit Meslier and Arbanne which all go into Les 7 along with the three classic varieties. The vineyards are propagated using massal selection and the majority of champagnes are vinified in wood. The élevage is particularly well executed and precise without going over the top. Malolactic fermentation is often avoided. This vineyard produces excellent, flavoursome de terroir champagnes with a strong personality. They are particularly popular with connoisseurs and critics.