Lot presentation

Les Vignes d'Autrefois Extra brut Laherte Frères 2018

The wine

The champagne house Laherte Frères, founded in 1889, spans 11 hectares. A philosophy of natural practises is applied throughout the vineyard. This cuvée is produced from 100% old Pinot Meunier vines (planted between 1947 and 1953). Generations have passed and this rich heritage remains. Fermentation takes place in barriques (which are a minimum of four years old), followed by six months of élevage on the lees. Its dosage is between 2 and 4g/l. On tasting, this champagne delivers white and citrus fruit aromas with mild spice and floral notes. On the palate, the wine is full bodied, fresh and supple, with beautiful length at the finish. This should be served cool. Pair it with a dish like scallops or poached sole.

About the Producer Laherte Frères

This illustrious champagne house, founded in 1889, is now under the care of its fifth and sixth generations. Thierry and his son Aurélien manage the property masterfully, with vineyards extending across over 11 hectares on the Côte de Blanc, the slopes of Sud d'Epernay and the Marne valley. A certain philosophy is applied to the vineyard work with a preference for natural practises. Laherte Frères is one of those rare houses still growing some of the Champagne region's forgotten grape varieties, namely Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Petit Meslier and Arbanne which all go into Les 7 along with the three classic varieties. The vineyards are propagated using massal selection and the majority of champagnes are vinified in wood. The élevage is particularly well executed and precise without going over the top. Malolactic fermentation is often avoided. This vineyard produces excellent, flavoursome de terroir champagnes with a strong personality. They are particularly popular with connoisseurs and critics.

Detailed characteristics