What kind of wine is Champagne Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut 'Bulles de Blancs' 2018 - Brocard Pierre

The Champagne Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut "Bulles de Blancs" 2018 - Brocard Pierre is an elegant expression of pure Chardonnay, coming from the vineyards of the Côte des Bar, in the southern part of Champagne. The Brocard Pierre house, a family business for generations, enhances the territory with a sustainable philosophy and a manual approach in every production phase. It is a Blanc de Blancs, meaning a Champagne made exclusively from white grapes (in this case 100% Chardonnay). Its finesse comes from the méthode champenoise or traditional method, a technique that involves a second fermentation in the bottle for effervescence, followed by a long aging on the lees which amplifies its complexity and creaminess.

Vintage details

The 2018 vintage in Champagne was characterized by a generous and stable climate, with a mild spring and a warm summer well-balanced by occasional rains. The Chardonnay grapes reached perfect ripeness, combining aromatic richness and natural freshness. The result is a harmonious Champagne, with a lively yet refined style, embodying the authentic signature of the Brocard Pierre terroir.

Winemaking and aging

For the Champagne Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut "Bulles de Blancs" 2018 - Brocard Pierre, the traditional méthode champenoise is adopted. After fermentation in stainless steel and careful rest for stabilization, the wine undergoes prise de mousse in the bottle, where it ages for about 5 years on the lees. This long contact gives elegance to the perlage and aromatic richness. The final dosage is Extra Brut (i.e., with very little added sugar), a choice that enhances the purity of Chardonnay and the mineral character typical of the clay-limestone soils of Celles-sur-Ource.

Tasting notes

Color

Visually, it presents a bright straw yellow with pale gold reflections. The very fine and continuous bubbles form an elegant and persistent crown, indicating long maturation on the lees.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and refined: notes of ripe citrus, green apple, and white flowers combine with delicate hints of bread crust and hazelnut. With oxygenation, mineral nuances and hints of fresh butter and pastry emerge, testifying to the depth of the long aging.

Taste

On the palate, it is vibrant, creamy, and perfectly balanced. The fresh attack evolves into a pleasant softness, supported by a precise structure and a long, savory finish. The fine bubbles caress the palate, providing a sensation of great harmony and persistence.

Food pairings for Champagne Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut 'Bulles de Blancs' 2018 - Brocard Pierre

This Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne pairs ideally with delicate yet flavorful dishes, enhancing preparations based on fish and shellfish. Excellent to accompany:

• oysters and raw seafood
• tuna or salmon tartare
• seafood risottos
• fresh cheeses and goat cheeses

It is also perfect as an elegant aperitif or for toasting a special occasion, thanks to its finesse and captivating freshness.

Storage and aging: how to store Champagne Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut 'Bulles de Blancs' 2018 - Brocard Pierre

To preserve the qualities of this Champagne over time, it is essential to pay attention to temperature and light.

• Temperature: store bottles between 10 and 12°C in a cool and stable environment.
• Light: avoid direct exposure to light or heat sources, which could alter its color and aroma.
• Position: keep bottles lying down, with the cork in contact with the wine, to prevent it from drying out and losing its seal.

Thanks to its solid structure and long aging, this Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Champagne can evolve well for several years, developing further aromatic nuances and taste complexity.