The Domaine de Marzilly Champagne Ullens Lot 7 NV is the flagship cuvée from Maxime Ullens, one of Champagne’s most exciting new-generation grower-producers. Based in the Massif de Saint-Thierry, the northernmost area of Champagne, Ullens farms predominantly Pinot Meunier on rare sandy soils and vinifies all wines in oak barrels crafted from timber sourced from the estate’s own forest. Lot 7 represents the third disgorgement of the estate’s inaugural Brut cuvée, based on the exceptional 2018 vintage with a significant proportion of reserve wines, showcasing both richness and precision.
The nose reveals ripe pear, yellow stone fruit and baked apple alongside notes of toasted brioche, white flowers and subtle spice. The palate is textured and vinous, combining generous fruit with fine mousse, vibrant acidity and impressive depth. Layers of citrus, orchard fruit and savoury minerality unfold through a long, persistent finish. Aged extensively on lees and bottled with a very low dosage, Lot 7 delivers a complex, terroir-driven style that highlights the character of Pinot Meunier while maintaining freshness and tension.
Ben’s Recommendation:
A superb grower Champagne for those seeking something beyond the classic Grandes Marques. Rich, textured and highly individual, it pairs beautifully with oysters, lobster, roast poultry, mushroom dishes and aged cheeses. Drinking beautifully now, but it has the structure and complexity to evolve gracefully over the next 8–12 years.
