The Champagne Larmandier-Bernier Grand Cru Les Chemins d'Avize 2016 (Disgorged September 2024) is a beautifully precise and intensely mineral Blanc de Blancs from one of the Côte des Blancs’ benchmark biodynamic grower estates. Produced entirely from old-vine Chardonnay grown in the Grand Cru village of Avize, the wine reflects Pierre Larmandier’s terroir-focused philosophy and restrained winemaking approach, highlighting chalky tension, saline freshness and layered complexity rather than overt richness. The nose reveals preserved lemon, green apple and white peach layered alongside toasted hazelnut, brioche and crushed chalk minerality, giving the wine remarkable depth and refinement.
On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied with exceptionally fine mousse, vibrant natural acidity and a tightly coiled mineral core. Layers of citrus peel, orchard fruit and savoury lees complexity are balanced by saline freshness and deep chalky tension, finishing long, dry and beautifully persistent with outstanding precision and ageing potential. The balanced 2016 vintage brings both concentration and freshness, allowing the wine’s mineral structure and layered texture to unfold with impressive clarity and finesse.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The Champagne Larmandier-Bernier Grand Cru Les Chemins d'Avize 2016 is a world-class grower Champagne — saline, precise and beautifully layered with exceptional chalky detail and structure. Perfect with oysters, scallops, lobster, sashimi or refined seafood dishes. Enjoy now with decanting or cellar gracefully through 2045+.
