Aromas of crisp yellow orchard fruit and mirabelle plum mingle with notions of freshly baked bread, almond paste and white flowers in an inviting bouquet that introduces Dhondt's NV Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Cramant (2019), a full-bodied, ample and pillowy Champagne that unites texture, generous racy acids and a chalky structure. Seamless and complete, it concludes with a long, mineral finish.
Vinous (94)
The NV Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Cramant Grand Cru is based on the 2019 vintage, harvested from 50-year-old vines, with a 30% addition of a perpetual reserve dating back to 1986. This is from two plots: La Garennes on richer soils that used to be market gardens, and Les Longes Verges with less topsoil, infected by fanleaf virus which results in small, concentrated grapes. The nose has fresh apple notes and the merest touch of crumbled chicken stock cube. The palate is beautifully taut, notwithstanding the ripeness Dhondt aims for, and a cut-through saltiness with a pure, bright lemon freshness. Slight phenolics on the finish add structure. Dosage is 1gr/L.
