What kind of wine is Champagne Extra-Brut 'Clos des Goisses' 2018 - Philipponnat

The Champagne Extra-Brut 'Clos des Goisses' 2018 - Philipponnat is one of the most iconic and prestigious labels in the Champagne region. It originates from a unique vineyard located in Mareuil-sur-Ay, in the heart of the Vallée de la Marne: an approximately 5.5-hectare plot enclosed by walls (hence the term "clos") with one of the steepest slopes in the entire region. This parcel, south-facing and primarily cultivated with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, yields grapes of extraordinary concentration and character. The Philipponnat house, active since the 16th century, is among the most respected for its ability to combine tradition and technical precision, following the Méthode Champenoise, which is the classic method of secondary fermentation in the bottle that characterizes all excellent Champagnes.

Vintage Details

The 2018 vintage was marked by particularly favorable weather, with a mild spring and a warm but balanced summer. The grapes reached ideal ripeness, ensuring great aromatic richness and excellent acidity, elements that contribute to the wine's balance and longevity. This vintage stands out for its harmony between power and finesse, typical of the best Clos des Goisses vintages.

Winemaking and Aging

Winemaking involves fermentation carried out 50% in wooden barrels, a choice that enriches the wine's structure and gives it superior complexity. This is followed by a long aging of 10 years on the lees before disgorgement, the phase where fermentation sediments are removed. The dosage is minimal, only 4 g/l, a characteristic that places it in the Extra-Brut category and allows the purity of the terroir to be clearly expressed.

Tasting Notes

Tasting the Champagne Extra-Brut 'Clos des Goisses' 2018 - Philipponnat is a complete experience, combining intensity, precision, and persistence.

Color

Visually, it presents an intense golden yellow with brilliant reflections. The fine and continuous bubbles testify to the long maturation on the lees and announce an elegant and persistent perlage.

Nose

The bouquet is deep and multifaceted: notes of ripe yellow fruit, toasted almond, and acacia honey emerge, followed by mineral hints and nuances of sweet spices. The evolution in the glass reveals a complexity that grows over time, always maintaining a lively and vibrant freshness.

Palate

On the palate, it is full and enveloping, with a perfect integration of freshness and structure. The very fine bubbles caress the palate and blend with a long savory and mineral finish that prolongs its persistence. The balance between power and refinement makes this Champagne unforgettable.

Food Pairings for Champagne Extra-Brut 'Clos des Goisses' 2018 - Philipponnat

This Champagne is ideal for pairing with refined dishes and preparations based on fish or white meats. Excellent with:

• Shellfish and oysters, which enhance its freshness;
• Fillet of sole or turbot with butter and lemon;
• Noble poultry, such as capon or guinea fowl with a light sauce;
• Aged cheeses, for an original but balanced pairing.

It is also a perfect companion for celebratory occasions where a wine of great class and complexity is desired.

Storage and Aging

For those wondering how to store Champagne Extra-Brut 'Clos des Goisses' 2018 - Philipponnat, it is important to follow a few fundamental rules to preserve its qualities and allow for harmonious evolution over time.

• Temperature: constant between 10°C and 12°C, avoiding temperature fluctuations.
• Light: store in the dark, as light can alter the aromas.
• Bottle position: horizontal, to keep the cork moist and prevent air infiltration.

If stored correctly, this champagne can age for over a decade, developing further aromatic nuances and even deeper complexity.