Grand Cellier d'Or 1er Cru à Rilly la Montagne - 2015
Vilmart & Cie
- Region
- France » Champagne AOC » Montagne de Reims
- Type
- white traditional sparkling, brut
- Producer
- Vilmart & Cie
- Vintage
- 2015
- Disgorged
- 2019-11
- On lees
- <42 months
- Grapes
- Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- Alcohol
- 12.5
- Sugar
- 7
- Volume
- 750 mL
- Cellar
- not available
This specific blend from Vilmart & Cie is composed of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir, both classified as Premier Cru and sourced from vines that are around fifty years old. The ageing process extends for ten months in 228-litre oak barrels. The choice to eschew malolactic fermentation preserves the natural acidity of the wine, ensuring a crisp, vibrant profile that balances the richness imparted by the oak.
Ratings
4.2·@Wix Kyiv Office · Classy Bubbles Vol. 3
This wine presents a vibrant array of citrus with grapefruit, lemon, and nuanced hints of orange oil, complemented by green apple and almond, and enriched by a deep lemon curd character. The medium body supports these flavours well. Its pronounced acidity is both robust and pointed, striking a delightful harmony with the fruit-driven finish. The wine is well-balanced, focused, and nuanced, with an attractive lack of MLF contributing to its crisp and refreshing profile.
4.2·@Lo Bar
The nose is an effervescent celebration of citrus, offering a lively mix of grapefruit, lemon, and nuanced hints of orange oil. These bright notes are complemented by undertones of green apple, almond, and a rich lemon curd. Moving to the palate, the wine showcases a medium body. Its pronounced acidity is both robust and pointed, which, to my delight, harmonises beautifully with the fruit-driven finish. Overall, this wine is a testament to its character, leaving a lasting impression of its intrinsic quality.
Vilmart & Cie
Established in 1890 in the Premier Cru village of Rilly-la-Montagne, Vilmart & Cie is a respected grower-producer in the Champagne region. The estate is known for its sustainable viticulture practices, avoiding herbicides and chemical fertilizers, reflecting its commitment to quality and environmental responsibility. Laurent Champs, the fifth-generation custodian, continues the family's legacy with a focus on meticulous viticulture and winemaking techniques.
Vilmart distinguishes itself through the use of oak barrels for fermentation and ageing, a practice less common in Champagne, contributing to the richer texture and complexity of its wines. This method is particularly notable in their esteemed cuvées like "Coeur de Cuvée" and "Grand Cellier," which have received international recognition for their quality and craftsmanship.
The house's commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of production, from the careful management of their vineyards to the detailed winemaking process, ensuring that each bottle expresses the unique terroir and heritage of Vilmart & Cie. As a result, Vilmart's Champagnes are celebrated for their depth, richness, and distinctive character, embodying the tradition and innovation that the house stands for.