Lot presentation

Aÿ Grand Cru Extra-Brut Bérêche et Fils 2015

The wine

This Extra-Brut Champagne Grand Cru Aÿ from the Champagne house Bérêche & Fils is a blend of grape varieties - 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay - coming from the terroirs of the Vallée de la Marne, specifically the Brise Pot and Froide Terre parcels which lie on south-west facing chalk soils.
The vinification process starts with a slow fermentation process in barrels followed by ageing on fine lees. This cuvée then benefits from a prise de mousse (the formation of bubbles) under cork and is aged on laths for 78 months to reach its peak.
On the nose, this Champagne reveals subtle aromas of limestone, red fruits, lemon and fennel, evolving into warmer notes of toasted almonds, brioche and a light touch of peat when aerated. On the palate, its distinctive minerality brings energy and an exciting freshness. The flavours are balanced, distinct and complex, offering a remarkably long and refreshing finish.

About the Producer Bérêche et Fils

Bérêche et Fils has been a well-established maison since the 19th century. The Bérêche brothers, Raphaël (winemaker) and Vincent (head of the vineyard) strive to produce champagne with personality, from top plot selections and the most natural winemaking possible. The family domain has existed since the 18th century, but it is these two brothers who have raised it to the top of the Champagne vineyards. In addition to the Bérêche et fils family domain, the two brothers have created a trading structure called Raphaël and Vincent Bérêche. This division is very rare in Champagne where the maisons usually mix the lands and their own purchases. The grapes are selected with the greatest attention: the soils are ploughed, substances are banned and barrel aging is proudly supported. The range is around the Côte, Montagne and Vallée in the name of the three great sub-regions of Champagne followed by the name of the terroir. The two brothers have tasted hundreds of samples to achieve 6 cuvées of excellence. A domain which is a point of reference and a safe bet.