What kind of wine is Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Empreintes' 2018 - Laherte Frères

The Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Empreintes' 2018 - Laherte Frères is the most authentic expression of the savoir-faire of one of the most appreciated artisanal houses in Champagne. It originates near Chavot, in the heart of the Côteaux Sud d’Épernay, from old vines cultivated using sustainable methods. This Extra Brut embodies all the character of the terroir: minerality, precision, and depth. The "Les Empreintes" label represents the stylistic signature of the Laherte family, who for generations have worked with respect for the land and the traditions of the méthode champenoise, the process of re-fermentation in the bottle that gives the sparkling wine elegance, finesse, and aromatic complexity.

Vintage Details

The 2018 vintage in Champagne is remembered as one of the most balanced of the last decade. The stable climate, with a warm and dry summer, ensured perfectly ripe, healthy, and aromatic grapes. The result is a generous yet precise vintage, capable of delivering tension, freshness, and a well-defined complexity in the glass.

Winemaking and aging

The Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Empreintes' 2018 - Laherte Frères is made according to the classic method (or méthode champenoise), which involves a second fermentation in the bottle. After disgorgement, this wine ages on its lees for approximately 72 months, developing complex aromas and a creamy structure. The "Extra Brut" dosage – meaning very little sugar added during disgorgement – allows for the enhancement of the fruit's purity and its natural freshness.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a bright golden yellow, with brilliant reflections that announce vitality. The perlage – meaning the texture of bubbles – is extremely fine and continuous, a sign of long aging.

Nose

On the nose, it reveals an elegant and layered bouquet: ripe citrus, crisp apple, dried fruit, and notes of white flowers intertwine with mineral nuances and light toasted sensations, due to the long aging on the lees.

Palate

On the palate, it is precise, vertical, and vibrant. The freshness and sapidity accompany a silky and persistent effervescence that extends the finish with citrus and saline notes. A perfect balance between matter and tension, ideal for those who love a dry and authentic style.

What dishes to pair with Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Empreintes' 2018 - Laherte Frères

Thanks to its elegance and incisive freshness, this Champagne pairs excellently with:

• Raw seafood and white fish tartare
• Seafood, oysters, and carpaccio
• Japanese cuisine dishes such as sushi and sashimi
• Fresh and goat cheeses

Also perfect for an important toast or as an accompaniment to an entire gourmet meal.

Storage and aging: how to store Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Empreintes' 2018 - Laherte Frères

To maintain the intact quality and complexity of this Champagne, it is important to store it following a few simple rules:

• Temperature: stable between 10 and 12°C, avoiding sudden temperature changes.
• Light: store away from direct light sources, especially sunlight.
• Position: the bottle must be stored horizontally, so that the cork remains moist and maintains a perfect seal.

If stored correctly, the Champagne Extra Brut 'Les Empreintes' 2018 - Laherte Frères can evolve for several years, developing increasingly complex and refined aromas.