Louis Roederer Blanc de Blancs 2012

750 ml | Alcohol/Vol: 12%

At the heart of the Cote des Blancs vineyards, where Chardonnay expresses itself with so much finesse and subtlety on limestone soils, Louis Roederer selected two exceptional grands crus (Le Mesnil sur Oger and Avize) whose distinctive and complementary characteristics allow intense wines to be produced, expressing both finesse and rich aromas. This elegant, racy cuvee quickly became the favorite wine of the Roederer family for major family events.

2012 was characterized by a particularly late growing cycle. A seemingly endless winter was followed by a very cool, late spring. We had to wait until the start of July for flowering to begin - something that hadn't been seen in Champagne for quite some time! Fortunately, summer was glorious with plenty of sunshine, record high temperatures and very low rainfall, ideal for the ripening of the Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. The temperatures were cool for the October harvest and the resulting wines are elegant and fresh - the signs of a "classic" vintage.

On the eye: Bright, intense yellow flecked with green. Soft, even effervescence with long-lingering threads of bubbles.

On the nose: Enticing bouquet of pollen, delicately scented spring flowers, honeysuckle, lily of the valley, lemon tree and more concentrated, candied lemon. The nose evolves towards toasty notes, sugared almonds, wheat and cereals, characteristic of the finest Avize Chardonnays.

On the palate: The round and fruity attack gives way to a mineral freshness that is chalky yet also powdery and velvety. There is a hint of cold, humid chalk and a slightly drying sensation which enhances the delicate and well-integrated minerality.