What kind of wine is Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Crayeres' - Champagne Rodez

Champagne Extra Brut "Les Crayeres" - Champagne Rodez is one of the most representative labels of Éric Rodez's maison, a renowned winemaker from Ambonnay, in the heart of the Montagne de Reims. This Champagne is born from a skilful blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the two symbolic varieties of the region, and carries all the elegance and precision of a territory with a strong chalky identity, hence the name "Les Crayeres" (the chalk caves).

Produced according to the traditional méthode champenoise – i.e., the second fermentation in the bottle that allows the natural development of bubbles – this Extra Brut stands out for its balance, structure, and great freshness, qualities that make it perfect both for a special toast and for accompanying an entire meal.

Vintage Details

Champagne Extra Brut "Les Crayeres" - Champagne Rodez is the result of a meticulous selection of grapes harvested in vintages with a balanced climate, where sunny days and cool nights favored a slow and regular maturation. The presence of wines from multiple vintages and a significant proportion of vins de réserve (about 40%) ensures consistency of style and aromatic complexity, always maintaining the maison's typical freshness.

Winemaking and aging

Winemaking involves the use of a dozen wines from different vintages: about 20% is aged in small oak barriques, while the rest rests in steel to preserve the purity of the fruit. After the second fermentation in the bottle – typical of the méthode classique – the wine ages for a long time on its lees, developing complex aromas and a creamy texture. The final dosage is Extra Brut, meaning a very reduced amount of sugar, to highlight the authenticity of the terroir and its minerality.

Tasting notes

Color

It presents a brilliant golden yellow, traversed by a very fine and persistent perlage, a sign of long aging on the lees and great oenological quality.

Nose

The bouquet is broad and refined, with notes of ripe fruit, candied citrus, and nuances of hazelnut and bread crust. Mineral and slightly smoky hints also emerge, recalling the typical chalk of Ambonnay soils.

Taste

On the palate, it is taut, elegant, and harmonious. Creamy bubbles caress the taste with finesse, while citrusy freshness and a slight savoriness leave a long and refined persistence. The finish recalls sensations of dried fruit and minerality, offering a clean and satisfying conclusion.

Which dishes to pair with Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Crayeres' - Champagne Rodez

Champagne Extra Brut "Les Crayeres" - Champagne Rodez is perfect as a sophisticated aperitif, but it performs at its best at the table. It pairs splendidly with:

• Crudités and fish tartare, such as bluefin tuna or salmon;
• Shellfish and seafood;
• Dishes based on poultry or delicate white meats;
• Fresh and soft cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert.

Its balanced structure also makes it an excellent companion for pasta dishes with light cream sauces or seafood risottos.

Storage and aging: how to store Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Crayeres' - Champagne Rodez

To preserve the qualities of this Champagne, it is important to store it correctly:

• Temperature: stable between 10 and 12°C, avoiding sudden temperature changes;
• Light: away from direct light sources and sunlight, which can alter its color and aromas;
• Bottle position: horizontal, so the cork remains in contact with the wine and stays elastic, preventing air infiltration.

Under these conditions, Champagne Extra Brut "Les Crayeres" - Champagne Rodez can evolve for several years, developing more mature and complex aromas, without losing its elegant freshness.