The new 2013 vintage Champagne Bruno Paillard Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs has landed in the U.S.
Within Champagne, 2013 has become known as the “slow motion” vintage. Cold, wet, humid weather, with winter temperatures 2.3 degrees lower than the 10-year average, led to delayed budding and flowering. These conditions, combined with Champagne’s famously poor soils, resulted in higher levels of acidity. Only in August did the vines start to catch up; thus, where 2013 champagnes are concerned, the big winner was Chardonnay, picked first during the rain-free Indian summer at the start of the harvest.
The 100% Grand Cru Chardonnay grapes are from the heart of the Côte des Blancs, Oger, and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. 25% of the grapes are vinified in old barriques, followed by seven years’ aging in the cellar, and a further 12-18 months’ rest post-disgorgement, prior to release. In line with the Bruno Paillard house style, the dosage is Extra Brut, at 4.5g/L.
Primary notes of cooled ashes and white flowers open to reveal white peach, lemon verbena and fresh almond, the company reports. An almost minty freshness on the palate is balanced by the slightly fleshy fruitiness of plums, followed by roasted hazelnuts.
Champagne Bruno Paillard Blanc de Bancs 2013 has a suggested retail price of $135 per 750-ml. bottle.Imported by Massanois Imports, NY, and Serendipity Wines, TX, it’s available in the following markets CA, CT, FL, KY, MA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH and TX.
