Etienne Calsac Champagne ‘L’Échappée Belle’ 1er Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut NV 1.5L MAGNUM

Organic. 100% Chardonnay. The fruit for this cuvée is taken mainly from 1er cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs, particularly the village of Grauves, which known for its cooler microclimate (70% of the base wine comes from these sites). The vineyards were planted by Etienne’s grandparents, who are both from Grauves. Beginning in 2011, Etienne has kept a perpetual reserve just for this cuvée, and 30% of the final blend is produced with that reserve. Direct press of the entire harvest with separation of the juice. Only the "cuvée" is kept for the vinification (no head or tail of the press). Base wine (currently 2022) aged on the lees for seven months, 25% of which is aged in neutral 500-600 liter barrels, before bottling. 30% reserve wine. Unfined, unfiltered. No dosage.