La Belle de Juillet Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs 2013 Grand Cru

La Belle de Juillet Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs 2013 Grand Cru is a pure Chardonnay Champagne from chalk-rich Grand Cru vineyards, crafted in a racy, mineral-driven style. The cool, structured 2013 vintage and long lees ageing bring tension, precision and complexity, while the Extra Brut dosage keeps the wine firmly on the dry, gastronomic side.

Appearance:

Pale lemon-gold with green highlights and a very fine, persistent mousse. The bead is slender and continuous, forming a delicate, even halo at the rim.

Aroma:

Fresh and refined, opening with lemon zest, crunchy green apple and white peach. Beneath the fruit lie notes of chalk dust, white flowers and a subtle saline edge. With air, more mature nuances appear: warm brioche, almond cream, hazelnut and a gentle hint of pastry, reflecting extended lees ageing.

Taste:

Dry, incisive and linear on the attack, driven by vivid citrus and orchard fruits—lime, lemon, green apple. The mousse is fine and silky, carrying flavours of white peach, grapefruit pith and a touch of quince. A pronounced chalky minerality runs through the mid-palate, giving structure and a cool, vertical feel, while discreet autolytic notes of biscuit and roasted nuts add depth without heaviness.

Finish:

Long, crisp and mouthwatering, leaving impressions of citrus peel, crushed stone and a delicate salty snap. The Extra Brut dosage keeps the finish very clean and bone-dry, with a lingering echo of lemon zest, toasted almond and chalk.

Food Pairing:

Ideal with oysters, scallops, sashimi and delicate seafood crudo, where its saline minerality mirrors the sea. Excellent alongside grilled white fish with lemon and herbs, tempura prawns, or a simple lobster roll. On land, try with goat’s cheese, young Comté, a leek and Gruyère tart, or roast chicken with lemon and thyme to highlight its acidity and nutty, savoury complexity.