Champagne Larmandier-Bernier 1er Cru Blanc de Noirs 2015 (Disg. May 2022), Larmandier-Bernier, Vertus Premier Cru.​ From just 1.2 hectares of old-vine Pinot Noir on the richer, clay-limestone slopes south of Vertus, this Blanc de Noirs 2015 is a powerful yet finely etched statement of terroir. Naturally fermented and raised in large cask and vat for 11 months, then tiraged in July 2016 and disgorged with zero dosage in May 2022, it opens with red apple, sour berry compote, blood orange, mineral smoke, and hints of freshly baked bread and buttery pastry.​

On the palate, this Larmandier-Bernier Blanc de Noirs 2015 is vinous, structured and tightly coiled – rushing minerals, a rigid spine of freshness and tense chalky grip frame its juicy red fruits for a long, dry, mouth-watering finish. Brilliant with roast pork, duck, game birds or aged Comté; it is also superb alongside charcuterie and richer seafood like tuna or salmon.​