Description
Lelarge-Pugeot is an eighth-generation winery in the Premier Cru village of Vrigny on the rolling slopes of the Montagne de Reims (about 15 minutes west of Reims). It is a real family operation, helmed by the two parents, Dominique and Dominique, and supported by their kids, one of whom is our good friend Clémence.
The family’s 8.7 hectares of vineyards, which are planted mostly with Pinot Meunier, face northward, offering some protection from the effects of global wiwarming, though Clémence is quick to note that they can now make red wines for the first time in the history of Champagne. The domaine, which has been certified organic since 2014 and Demeter-certified biodynamic since 2017, is comprised of 42 distinct parcels where Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay are grown at elevations of 400 ft. The wines of Lelarge-Pugeot are bright and full of pizzazz, and the family is producing some electric juice.
The Pinot Meunier grape represents about 60% of Lelarge-Pugeot's total plantings, and this is a rare example of a champagne made solely with Pinot Meunier grapes. It is a beautifully balanced dry wine with intense fruitiness. Crisp minerality and creamy textures serve as the backbone for tart green apple and lime juice, with hints of almond.
Grapes: Pinot Meunier
Style: Sparkling Wine
ABV: 12.5%
Region: Champagne
Sub-Region or Appellation: Vrigny, Montagne de Reims
Viticulture: Certified Organic 2014, Demeter Certified Biodynamic 2017
Age of Vines: 40 years old
Soils: Chalk, limestone, clay loam, sand
Yeasts: Indigenous
Vinification: Aged for 6 months in tank before bottling
Aging: 6 years on the lees in bottle
Dosage: 2 g/L
Fining or Filtering: None
