A radiant expression of the Côte des Blancs, the Blanc de Blancs Millésime 2016 en magnum from Louis Roederer celebrates the purity of Chardonnay from the Grand Cru d’Avize. Presented in a coffret premium, this Brut cuvée enchants with its precision and depth, born of a patient ageing of five years on the lees and a partial élevage in oak barrels that brings breadth and texture. The malolactic fermentation is blocked to preserve brightness, uprightness and mineral vigour, while a dosage of 7 g/L balances freshness and mid-palate charm. The magnum format, known for a slower, more harmonious maturation, here reveals an aromatic range of great finesse, carried by a delicate effervescence. Floral and saline, crossed by vivid citrus and chalky resonance, this 2016 combines tension and grace, asserting itself as a table companion both savoury and refined. Critics agree, with a 94/100 awarded by R. Parker, highlighting the remarkable poise and noble expression of this cuvée.

Assemblage et vinification

Made exclusively from Chardonnay, this Blanc de Blancs draws its verticality from the chalk of Avize, a flagship terroir of the Côte des Blancs. Winemaking subtly orchestrates purity and amplitude, with between 23 and 28% of the wines aged in oak barrels, a guarantee of silky texture and added complexity. The long ageing on the lees, 5 years on the lees, refines the mousse, polishes the substance and develops characteristic saline and smoky nuances. The malolactic fermentation deliberately blocked preserves the acid framework and aromatic straightness, while the dosage at 7 g/L places the cuvée firmly in the Brut category with remarkable precision. Bottling in magnum favours a slower evolution, revealing over time a delicate patina, a silkier mouthfeel and a serene energy, without diluting the original fruit brightness.

Notes de dégustation

• Appearance : Pale golden yellow, crossed by a fine and regular effervescence; the mousse forms a persistent collar that announces a refined texture. The crystalline brilliance recalls the tension of the chalk and presents an attractive clarity.
• Nose : Delicate and airy, it mixes white flowers of jasmine and orange blossom, lemon and grapefruit zest, then opens onto a saline and subtly smoky thread. Evocations of damp chalk, citrus peel and a hint of white pepper underline the precision.
• Palate : The attack is straight and clean, carried by a chiselled freshness. The mid-palate reveals an elegant flesh where the chalky minerality sculpts the structure. The finish, long and lively, stretches over the citrus and a saline resonance, with a distinguished smoky echo.

Température de service et conseils

To best reveal the elegance of this champagne, serve between 10 and 12°C, ideally around 10°C to preserve floral purity and fruit energy. Prefer a tulip glass with a wide bowl that concentrates the bouquet while leaving enough room for the effervescence. A few minutes of rest in the glass is enough to reveal the saline and smoky nuances; no decanting required. Store your bottles lying flat, away from light, in a cool, steady cellar. The magnum format extends the cellaring potential beyond 8 years, allowing you to enjoy the evolution toward rounder aromas without losing the mineral straightness that defines this cuvée.

Accords mets et vin

• Aperitifs : light gougères, lemon-ricotta tartlets, thin slices of marinated sea bass. The wine’s tension awakens the palate and enhances the delicacy of the bites.
• Starters : scallop carpaccio, sea bass ceviche, gilthead bream tartare with citrus. Floral notes and salinity blend with marine freshness.
• Main courses : sole meunière, lobster poached in lemon butter, roasted poultry with a light jus. The caressing texture and chalky relief gracefully accompany these delicate textures.
• Cheeses : young comté, fruity beaufort, fresh tomme. The saline register and lively acidity support pressed cheeses without overpowering them.
• Desserts : thin lemon tart, grapefruit-basil granite, petits fours with candied zest. The wine’s sapid finish prolongs the brightness.

Moments de dégustation

This cuvée in magnum is an ideal partner for moments when elegance is invited to the table.

• To celebrate a friendly gathering with refinement, creating a bright and joyful atmosphere.
• During a gourmet seafood dinner, where aromatic precision and mineral poise converse with the dishes.
• As an exceptional gift in a presentation box, for connoisseurs who appreciate the purity of Chardonnay and the expression of great terroirs.

Caractéristiques

• Nom : Louis Roederer, Blanc de Blancs Millésime 2016 Magnum
• Appellation : Champagne AOC
• Type : Blanc de Blancs, Brut
• Millésime : 2016
• Cépage : Chardonnay 100%
• Origine : Grand Cru d’Avize, Côte des Blancs
• Élevage : 5 ans sur lattes, 23 à 28% en fûts de chêne
• Fermentation malolactique : bloquée
• Dosage : 7 g/L
• Contenance : Magnum 150 cl
• Garde : 8 ans et plus selon conservation
• Température de service : 10°C