The Champagne Larmandier-Bernier Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant 2014 (Disgorged September 2023) is a profound and beautifully layered Blanc de Blancs from one of the Côte des Blancs’ most respected biodynamic estates. Produced entirely from old-vine Chardonnay planted in 1955 in a single Grand Cru parcel in Cramant, the wine reflects Pierre Larmandier’s meticulous terroir-focused philosophy, combining low-intervention winemaking with extraordinary chalk-driven precision and depth. The nose reveals preserved lemon, baked apple and ripe pear layered alongside toasted hazelnut, brioche, chamomile and intense chalky minerality, giving the wine immense complexity and refinement.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with exceptionally fine mousse, vibrant natural acidity and a deeply concentrated mineral core. Layers of citrus oil, orchard fruit and savoury lees complexity are balanced by saline freshness and profound chalky tension, finishing long, dry and beautifully persistent with remarkable precision and ageing potential. The cooler and highly structured 2014 vintage contributes remarkable clarity and freshness, allowing the vineyard’s mineral detail and layered texture to unfold with exceptional finesse.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The Champagne Larmandier-Bernier Grand Cru Vieille Vigne du Levant 2014 is a world-class grower Champagne — profound, mineral and breathtakingly refined with extraordinary depth and chalky precision. Perfect with lobster, scallops, turbot, truffle dishes or aged Comté. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar gracefully through 2048+.
