Burgundy meets Champagne. Maison Valentine Leflaive arose from the coming together of two great wine and terroir enthusiasts: Olivier Leflaive and Érick de Sousa, who today manage vineyards of nearly 45 years of age. Champagne Grand Cru Extra Brut Blanc De Blancs Avize|16|40 is made with 100% Chardonnay grapes from vineyards with an average age of 25 years, located in the Côte des Blancs. These vineyards, with their chalk and loam soil, benefit from a northern aspect and are situated at an altitude of 320 metres. The grapes are harvested by hand and lightly pressed to separate and collect the musts, which are then vinified in stainless steel tanks. In the interest of transparency and modernity, each cuvée by Champagne Valentin Leflaive has an individual code on its label. The letters define the variety and plot of each cuvée, while the numbers indicate the vintages of the reserve wines used as well as the dosage. It has a slight amaranth red colour in the glass. Precise on the nose however, the aromatic profile mixes tasty red berry fruit notes such as red currants and raspberries, helping to preserve the minerality typical of its terroir. Freshness and acidity forms on the palate, evoking the Verzenay terroir through notes of small red berry fruits that blend perfectly with spicy aromas. This Champagne Blanc de Blancs is best paired with fish mains, such as sautéed white fish or seafood risotto.
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