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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Champagne Laherte Frères Blanc de Blancs Brut Naturetext
94POINTS
17½/20

Champagne Laherte Frères Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature NV

Champagne, FranceThe Laherte family has a long history in the region. Founded in 1889 by Jean-Baptiste Laherte, the estate was initially made up of vines primarily in the village of Chavot. Fourth-generation vigneron Michel Laherte expanded the family estate, covering about five hectares. With his wife Cécile, the two young vignerons modernized the press and tanks but soon realized that too much modernity, such as herbicides and pesticides, would prevent full terroir expression in the wines. They began working the soils, gently vinifying the juices, and remaining humble and patient as the wines developed. In 2005, his son Aurélien Laherte overtook operations of the estate. The 10.5 hectares of Larherte vineyards are mainly situated in the Coteaux Sud D'Épernay, sandwiched between the Côtes des Blancs and the Vallée de la Marne. Seven of their 75+ separate parcels are farmed biodynamically and certified organic, with the rest organic or sustainably farmed. The Blanc de Blancs come off their chalkiest soils, in Chavot and Epernay, from vines averaging 35 years. It was fermented in small foudres and barrels with light bâtonnage and partial MLF before heading to the bottle for at least 24 months. My bottle was disgorged in July 2021 with zero dosage. At once tight and toasty, with lemon meringue, pencil shavings and crunchy green apple providing ample energy and verve to this BdB. A delight, and one to seek out for those favouring lean, edgy, vibrancy in their BdB.Tasted: 12 May 2023Tasted by: Prices:
BC$99.00750mlprivate wine stores
Producer: Champagne Laherte FrèresDistributors: Olivier Brands
Grape: Chardonnay