What kind of wine is Champagne Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs AOC 'Le Cotet' - Jacques Lassaigne?

The Champagne Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs AOC 'Le Cotet' - Jacques Lassaigne is one of the most authentic and refined expressions from the Côte des Bar, in the south of Champagne. It is produced exclusively from Chardonnay grapes sourced from old vines located around Montgueux, a terroir known for its calcareous soil which imparts great tension and minerality to the wine. The Jacques Lassaigne house is a small family-run establishment that has earned a place of honor among independent producers, thanks to an artisanal and nature-respecting approach. This Champagne is made using the Méthode Champenoise – the classic process of secondary fermentation in the bottle – which gives the bubbles their typical finesse and persistence.

Vintage Details

Each vintage of Champagne Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs AOC 'Le Cotet' - Jacques Lassaigne reflects the climatic characteristics of the year. Recent vintages have been distinguished by a perfect balance between grape ripeness and natural freshness, thanks to sunny summers with cool nights – a crucial factor in preserving the acidity and delicate aromas of Chardonnay.

Winemaking and Aging

Winemaking takes place in small steel and wooden vats, with spontaneous fermentations thanks to indigenous yeasts. After blending, the wine rests on its lees for several years, following the classic method. This long period on the lees – more than 3 years – enriches the aromatic profile and imparts complexity and creaminess to the palate. The dosage is Extra Brut, with very little added sugar (generally under 4 g/l), to maintain the pure expressive character of the Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, the Champagne Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs AOC 'Le Cotet' - Jacques Lassaigne displays a light yellow hue with golden reflections, traversed by very fine and persistent bubbles that highlight its elegance.

Nose

The nose is fresh and refined, with aromas recalling citrus zest, white flower, green apple, and subtle notes of chalk and freshly baked bread – a distinctive sign of aging on the lees.

Palate

The palate is taut, mineral, and vibrant. The pronounced acidity of Chardonnay is perfectly balanced by a delicate creaminess, while the persistence leaves a saline and citrusy finish of great precision.

Food Pairings for Champagne Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs AOC 'Le Cotet' - Jacques Lassaigne

This Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut is ideal for pairing with dishes of pure and delicate flavor. Perfect as a sophisticated aperitif, it truly shines at the table with:

• Raw seafood and oysters
• White fish or salmon tartare
• Shrimp or red prawn carpaccio
• Fresh and goat cheeses
• Vegetarian dishes with a citrus touch

Its freshness and minerality also make it an excellent companion for sushi, sashimi, or contemporary cuisine dishes.

Storage and Aging: How to store Champagne Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs AOC 'Le Cotet' - Jacques Lassaigne

To preserve the qualities of this Champagne, it is important to store it correctly. The ideal environment should be:

• Cool, with a constant temperature between 10°C and 12°C
• Dark, protected from direct light which can alter the wine
• Horizontal position of the bottle, to keep the cork moist and perfectly sealed

The Champagne Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs AOC 'Le Cotet' - Jacques Lassaigne is ready to drink, but can evolve in the bottle for several years, developing more complex nuances of hazelnut, honey, and toast, while maintaining its unmistakable freshness.