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Larmandier-Bernier, Champagne 1er Cru Extra Brut Longitude [2020 base], NV

$89.99

PREORDER - ARRIVES LATE NOVEMBER 2024

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Larmandier-Bernier’s Champagne 1er Cru Extra Brut “Longitude” NV, with a 2020 base, is a refined and terroir-focused Blanc de Blancs crafted entirely from Premier Cru and Grand Cru Chardonnay vineyards along a single “longitude” line in the Côte des Blancs, specifically Vertus, Cramant, Avize, and Oger. Known for their biodynamic and minimalist approach, Larmandier-Bernier vinifies this cuvée in a combination of stainless steel and large oak casks, allowing the Chardonnay to express its pure, mineral-rich character. The Extra Brut dosage highlights the wine’s natural acidity and precision.

On the nose, “Longitude” presents elegant aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and white flowers, with subtle undertones of almond and chalk. The palate is vibrant and linear, with flavors of citrus, crisp pear, and a fine chalky minerality, supported by a delicate, creamy mousse. The Extra Brut finish brings a refreshing dryness and a lingering, mineral-driven depth that reflects the chalk-rich soils of its origins.

Perfect for pairing with oysters, sashimi, or creamy risotto, “Longitude” is a versatile and food-friendly Champagne that shines with its freshness and finesse. The 2020 base adds a touch of youthful energy, making it both approachable now and well-suited for cellaring. This cuvée captures the essence of Larmandier-Bernier’s dedication to terroir and the elegance of Premier Cru Chardonnay.

More about this wine

Grapes | 100% Chardonnay

Vineyards | Premier Cru Chardonnay from Vertus Premier Cru and from terroirs rated Grand Crus in Cramant, Avize and Oger (all vineyards on the same longitudinal plane); chalk and limestone soils. Farmed biodynamically.

Vinification | natural yeast fermentation in barriques and foudres, reserve wines in stainless; sur lie until end of June; blended & bottled without fining and filtration; 30 months sur lattes; 3 gr/l dosage

Disgorgement: September 2023


The story of the Larmandier-Bernier estate goes back centuries, but things only really got interesting after the late 1980s, when Pierre Larmandier took over. He immediately moved towards sustainable (and eventually, biodynamic) viticulture and indigenous fermentation, putting this estate well ahead of the current set of like-minded grower-producers.

Now Larmandier-Bernier is, according writer Peter Liem, "one of the finest producers in the Côte des Blancs", garnering rave reviews not just from Liem but other top critics like Vinous' Antonio Galloni.

The wines are unified stylistically, with chalky cores and delicate, lifted citrus and floral notes that seem drawn in pastel. But there are also strong differences, a testament to the distinct personalities within the Côtes des Blancs.

Professional Reviews

Antonio Galloni

AG 94
"The NV Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Longitude 1er Cru is a powerful, ample wine. The Longitude builds beautifully in the glass, creamy and textured, with tons of resonance. Pear, white pepper, dried flowers, mint and chalk are all delineated in a Champagne that blends power and tension. This is all class. Dosage is 3 grams per liter." -Vinous

Robert Parker

RP 92
"Based on the 2020 vintage and disgorged in November 2022, the new release of Larmandier's NV Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Longitude wafts from the glass with aromas of sweet citrus fruit, fresh pastry, green apple and flowers. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, its satiny attack segues into a racy, broad-shouldered mid-palate, concluding with a chalky finish." -Robert Parker

Wine Spectator

WS 92
"Hints of lime blossom and pink grapefruit sorbet are a citrusy thread through this sleek, finely knit Champagne. It's racy and lightly spiced, with flavors of yellow plum and chalky mineral set on the delicate mousse."

Champagne

Champagne boasts some of the world’s greatest luxury brands with Krug, Cristal and, of course, Dom Perignon. But it’s also home to hundreds of small dynamic producers—farmers who grow their own grapes (often organically) and make (often with natural methods) tiny amounts of pure and absolutely delicious wine that reflect the individual personalities of their villages and terroirs. Toast with these wines, for sure. But also treat them like the great wines they are: taste, drink, explore!

Customer Reviews

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