Les Vignes d'Autrefois 2020, Champagne Laherte Frères | Champagne

The Les Vignes d'Autrefois cuvée from Laherte Frères is a magnificent 100% Pinot Meunier. Produced from old vines planted between 1947 and 1953 on selected plots in Chavot and Mancy, this cuvée reflects the purity and richness of its terroir. The vines are deeply rooted in chalky-clay soils enriched with flint, giving the wine a distinctive minerality. Traditional winemaking in oak barrels, without malolactic fermentation, preserves the wine's freshness and tension. Ageing on fine lees for six months brings complexity and aromatic depth. The Extra Brut dosage (2 to 4 g/l) underlines the balance and purity of this cuvée.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : True to its respect for nature, Laherte Frères favors organic and biodynamic growing methods. Old vines are carefully tended to preserve their vitality and ability to fully express the character of Pinot Meunier. Winemaking follows a minimalist approach, avoiding malolactic fermentation to preserve the wine's freshness and energy, while ageing in oak barrels enhances structure and aromatic richness.

On the nose, the wine reveals intense aromas of stone fruits such as peach and apricot, accompanied by delicate floral notes and a touch of damp chalk, the signature of its chalky terroir.

On the palate, the attack is lively and precise, offering fine mineral tension. Ripe fruit flavors mingle harmoniously with spicy nuances and a light salinity, bringing remarkable depth and complexity. The finish is long, marked by persistent freshness and elegant bitterness.