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

The La Belle de Juillet Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru 2013 is an elegant Champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes sourced from prestigious Grand Cru vineyards, likely from the renowned Côte des Blancs. As a vintage Champagne, this 2013 Blanc de Blancs highlights the exceptional quality of the harvest and showcases the purity, minerality, and complexity of top-tier Chardonnay. Crafted in an extra brut style, the wine emphasizes freshness and precision, with minimal dosage, allowing the natural characteristics of the fruit and terroir to shine.

Appearance: Pale golden yellow with a fine, persistent mousse, reflecting its elegance and craftsmanship.

Aroma: The nose is fresh and sophisticated, with bright aromas of citrus zest, green apple, and white flowers such as jasmine and acacia. There are also layers of toasted brioche, almond, and a hint of wet stone, indicative of the wine’s time on lees and its chalky Grand Cru origins. As it opens, delicate hints of honey and lemon curd emerge, adding depth to the bouquet.

Taste: On the palate, this Blanc de Blancs is crisp and vibrant, with flavours of lemon, green apple, and pear, balanced by a chalky minerality that provides structure and finesse. The texture is creamy yet lively, thanks to the fine bubbles, while the wine’s extra brut style ensures a zesty, clean profile. Subtle notes of toasted nuts, buttered brioche, and a touch of salinity enhance the complexity, making the wine both refreshing and layered.

Finish: The finish is long and precise, with lingering citrus and mineral notes, leaving a fresh and refined aftertaste that showcases the wine’s aging potential and purity.

Food pairing: This Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs pairs beautifully with seafood, particularly oysters, lobster, or scallops, where its acidity and minerality enhance the freshness of the dish. It also complements light appetizers like sushi, goat cheese, or ceviche. Its structure and elegance make it a perfect match for delicate fish dishes, and it can also shine alongside creamy risotto or mushroom-based dishes, balancing richness with its zesty freshness.