What kind of wine is Champagne Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut 'Naturellement' - Cazé-Thibaut

The Champagne Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut 'Naturellement' - Cazé-Thibaut is a refined expression of pure Pinot Meunier, the iconic grape variety of the Vallée de la Marne. The Cazé-Thibaut house, a small family-run estate, elegantly interprets the philosophy of the "méthode champenoise," the traditional process of secondary fermentation in the bottle that gives each cuvée unique finesse and complexity. The grapes, hand-picked and selected, produce a wine with an authentic and vibrant profile, true to the character of its terroir. “Naturellement” represents a choice of purity and naturalness: no dosage at disgorgement, for a sincere and direct taste.

Vintage details

The vintage of this Champagne reflects the particular climatic conditions of the Vallée de la Marne, where the alternation of mild days and cool nights favored a balanced ripening of the Pinot Meunier grapes. The manual harvests allow only the best bunches to be selected, enhancing the contrast between freshness and structure. The result is a Champagne that combines minerality, elegance, and gustatory tension.

Vinification and aging

The Champagne Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut 'Naturellement' - Cazé-Thibaut is born from a vinification process meticulously crafted in every detail. The grapes are spontaneously fermented without the addition of selected yeasts, and 50% of the must ages in oak barrels to acquire complexity and aromatic depth. This is followed by secondary fermentation in the bottle according to the classic method, with aging for about 18 months on the lees, which enriches the wine with notes of fresh bread and fine, persistent bubbles. The dosage is zero (Extra Brut Nature), a choice that highlights the purity and personality of Pinot Meunier.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, it presents an intense straw yellow with golden reflections. The bubbles are fine and continuous, a sign of careful and prolonged effervescence.

Nose

On the nose, fragrant hints of crisp apple, pear, and ripe citrus emerge, alongside delicate notes of pastry, dried fruit, and a touch of toastiness due to aging in wood. A bouquet that evolves in the glass, inviting you to rediscover every nuance.

Palate

On the palate, it is taut, mineral, and surprisingly balanced. The structure of Pinot Meunier supports the freshness of the effervescence and accompanies a long, clean finish, with a pleasant sensation of chalk and dried fruit. The impression is of an authentic, direct wine, capable of revealing the full truth of its terroir.

Food Pairings for Champagne Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut 'Naturellement' - Cazé-Thibaut

This Extra Brut Champagne is extremely versatile and can be enjoyed both as an aperitif and throughout the meal. It pairs perfectly with:

• raw seafood and fish tartare;
• oysters, carpaccios, and grilled crustaceans;
• light dishes based on poultry or with mushrooms and dried fruits;
• bloomy rind cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert;
• vegetarian cuisine and gourmet finger food.

An ideal glass for convivial moments, but also perfect for those who want to discover a sincere and contemporary expression of artisanal Champagne.

Storage and Aging: how to store Champagne Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut 'Naturellement' - Cazé-Thibaut

To preserve the qualities of this Champagne, it is important to follow some storage rules:

• Temperature: between 10°C and 12°C constant, avoiding temperature fluctuations;
• Light: store away from direct light and heat sources, as light can alter its color and aromas;
• Position: keep the bottle lying down, so that the cork remains in contact with the wine and maintains proper humidity.

While intended to be enjoyed in its freshness, the Champagne Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut 'Naturellement' - Cazé-Thibaut can evolve in the bottle for several years, gaining complexity and depth over time.