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 1979
A piercingly cold winter delayed the start of the growing season and was followed by a decidedly cool spring with some frosts in May. As a result, growth was subdued but initial flowering was good. The weather improved in June and July with nice sunshine and gentle heat creating excellent conditions for ripening. Despite rainfall during harvest, sugar and acidity levels remained high and disease pressure didn't mount too much of an assault, producing Champagnes of impressive character and length.
On top of quality, great quantity was also achieved, with an average crop of 11,061 kg/ha being picked between October 3rd and 31st. The Chardonnays were particularly successful and high-yielding. Krug Clos du Mesnil is sheer perfection, going from strength to strength over the years. There are plenty of great Champagnes still in outstanding form. They include Krug Vintage, Louis Roederer Cristal, as well as Lanson Vintage Collection and Noble Cuvée.