Philippe Lancelot Cramant Extra Brut Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes 2019 - 750ml

Estate History:
Philippe Lancelot took over Domaine Y. Lancelot Wanner, founded by his parents in the 1970s at Cramant. About four hectares lie in Cramant, Avize, Chouilly, Oiry, Épernay and Aÿ. He has run the estate since 2007; biodynamics began in 2012 (Ecocert, Demeter, Biodyvin). With Hervé Jestin since 2009, he has added no sulphur from 2015. Cramant is a core Côte des Blancs Grand Cru village, known for creamy, mineral blanc de blancs.

Wine Introduction:
Cramant Extra Brut Grand Cru Vieilles Vignes 2019 is 100% Chardonnay from every estate plot in Grand Cru Cramant except Les Longues Verges. Vines were planted between 1951 and 1989 (average about 40–45 years). Raised in tank with malolactic, no added sulphur, Extra Brut close to Nature. 2019 saw spring frost and a hot summer; late-July and August rain helped ripeness. Unlike the single-site Fond du Bateau, this is the village old-vine score: power and balance in a gastronomic blanc de blancs.

Tasting Notes:
Nosing: White flowers, firm citrus and ripe yellow fruit, with a hint of pastry and spice.
Palate: Clear structure, bright acidity, mineral and flesh together.
Finish: Medium-long, citrus pith and chalky salinity.