Champagne Chaudron Pinot Meunier Grains de Noirs Extra Brut NV

Since 1867, the Chaudron family has produced pure, artisanal Champagnes from their home base in the Montagne de Reims. Today, seventh-generation vigneron Luc Chaudron carries on his family legacy of producing refined Champagnes from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier with loads of character and uniqueness to express the terroir. One of Luc’s ancestors, Hélène (whom one of the cuvées is named after), actually lived to 102 years old and claimed that Champagne was the secret to her vitality. We’re in no part here to give medical advice, but that’s one belief we can absolutely get behind!

The Grains de Noirs is built of all Pinot Meunier with a full three years of aging on the lees. A thoughtful Brut dosage of 6 grams per liter (which could technically qualify as Extra Brut) is added at disgorgement to really amplify those full fruit flavors of the Meunier grapes. It has a rich and rounded personality balanced with lively acidity that perfectly expresses the authenticity of fruit and terroir flavors of the Montagne de Reims.

The nose opens with voluptuous aromatics of Golden Delicious apple and the nutty, cherry-laced scent of heliotrope blossoms. The palate continues with more of the same rich and robust flavor sensations, adding in compelling notes of frothy coconut lemonade and cherry plums, softened with warm cashew butter and a salt-crusted seashell mineral note at the savory, lingering finish. The texture remains lively, luxurious, and energetic throughout, and for under $40, this is an absolute delight of a Champagne that you simply must try! Over and over again, if at all possible!