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Wine Description
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.
Wine Information
Grand Blanc 2004 is exclusively blended from Chardonnay grapes from the best growths (1er Cru and Grand Cru) of the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims, including some white Clos des Goisses.
Grand Blanc 2004 is a noteworthy exception in the otherwise Pinot Noir-dominated range of Philipponnat wines. While possessing vinosity and a creamy texture, it is true to the lightness and finesse of a great Blanc de Blanc.
Grand Blanc is a superb apéritif Champagne for beautiful occasions; It will also be a wonderful companion for all sea food, especially scallops, lobster and crayfish.
Vintage 2004
A great example of how large yields do not necessarily mean poor quality in Champagne. As a reaction to the previous year's low yields, the vines produced one of the largest crops on record. The growing season proceeded without major difficulties but the bumper crop called for bud thinning. August brought about cooler weather and some rains, increasing the risk of rot. The massive crop, averaging 13,990 kg/ha, was picked from September 18th onwards. The quality was a pleasant surprise; vibrant wines with appropriate intensity, refined charm and refreshing lightness. This vintage impresses me more and more, and I feel tempted to give it the full five stars. It comes with a rare balance of freshness, lightness, yet fine aromatic intensity. Post-release, this vintage has proven to be slow to age, and elegant wines are likely to keep on ageing gracefully. Dom Pérignon and Louis Roederer Cristal both excelled.