The Story
Grand Blanc, blended exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, is a remarkable exception in Philipponnat’s range of wines, the House’s hallmark being the Pinot Noir grape. This is a unique opportunity to discover another facet oftheHouse’sstyleintheshapeofafine,mode- rately dosed blanc de blancs.
100% Chardonnay from Côte des Blancs, Montagne de Reims and Clos des Goisses. First press juice from exclusively Premier and Grand Cru plots.
vinification
Vinified using traditional methods to avoid premature oxidation. Partial malolactic fermentation for the wines in vats and vinification without malolactic fermentation for the wines in wooden barrels. An elegant wine that preserves a balance between freshness, floral aromas and vinosity. « Extra-brut » dosage (4.25 g/litre) to preserve its original purity and distinction.
aging
Aged for at least five to seven years to develop maximum complexity and to highlight the secondary and tertiary aromas which are the hallmark of extended aging on lees.
Vintage 1921
The 1921 vintage in Champagne is remembered as an outstanding year that yielded wines of remarkable quality and character.
The weather conditions in Champagne during the 1921 growing season played a pivotal role in shaping the exceptional character of the vintage. The year began with a cold winter, followed by a spring with ideal conditions for flowering. Summer was warm and dry, with consistent sunshine, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The harvest took place under clear skies, resulting in grapes of extraordinary quality.
Champagne 1921: The 1921 Champagne vintage is widely regarded as one of the greatest in the region's history. These Champagnes are known for their remarkable aging potential and complexity.
Appearance: The 1921 Champagnes typically exhibit a pale golden color with a fine and persistent effervescence, showcasing their freshness and vitality even after many years of aging.
Nose: On the nose, the 1921 Champagnes offer an alluring bouquet with aromas of citrus zest, white flowers, hints of toasted brioche, and a subtle honeyed note. There is a pronounced mineral character that adds depth and complexity to the aromatic profile.
Palate: In the mouth, the 1921 Champagnes are marked by their remarkable depth, finesse, and balance. The bubbles are finely integrated, providing a creamy and luxurious mouthfeel. The acidity remains vibrant, lending a refreshing quality to the wines. Flavors of ripe orchard fruits, honeyed notes, and hints of hazelnut intermingle harmoniously, creating a profound and enduring finish. These wines are exceptionally well-balanced, showcasing the elegance and longevity that Champagne is renowned for.
Overall Impressions: The Champagne 1921 vintage is considered a legendary year in the region's history. These wines have aged gracefully and continue to captivate wine enthusiasts with their complexity and character. They are a testament to the exceptional winemaking prowess of Champagne and offer a unique opportunity to experience a moment in history when Champagne truly sparkled.